Princess Zahra Aga Khan Guides AKU’s Mission as University Celebrates Research and Student Achievements
Karachi: The Aga Khan University (AKU) held its 38th convocation in Pakistan, graduating 461 students across 18 degree programs. The historic ceremony also marked the formal installation of Princess Zahra Aga Khan as the university’s first Pro-Chancellor. In her new role, she will guide AKU in advancing its mission to improve quality of life.
In his message, Chancellor His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan emphasized that AKU and its graduates carry a unique responsibility to generate, share, and apply knowledge for the betterment of humanity. This year also saw the first graduating class of the Institute for Educational Development’s Bachelor of Education program, which blends theory with field training to prepare students for effective teaching in diverse learning environments.
Addressing the ceremony, Pro-Chancellor Princess Zahra Aga Khan highlighted the university’s geographic expansion, which has extended its presence from Karachi to Matiari, Lahore to Gilgit, integrating health professionals, educators, and researchers into public life across Pakistan. Nearly 70 percent of this year’s graduates were women, a milestone in reducing the country’s gender gap in education.
Valedictorian Muhammad Taha Naseem thanked faculty for inspiring excellence and teaching that compassion must accompany achievement. AKU graduates continue to play a vital role in addressing workforce shortages, with alumni leading nearly 80 nursing and midwifery institutions nationwide despite Pakistan’s shortage of nurses.
In 2025, AKU secured over USD 100 million in research funding, while 27 faculty members were recognized among the world’s top two percent of scientists. President Dr. Sulaiman Shahabuddin praised Pakistan’s youth for their adaptability, openness to diverse perspectives, and ability to transform technology into opportunity. The university also provided financial assistance to 72 percent of students last year, ensuring access for those facing economic challenges.
Outstanding graduates received awards, while Professor Emeritus Mushtaq Ahmed was honored with the Presidential Medal, AKU’s highest distinction. The ceremony was attended by distinguished guests, including AKU’s founding president, Shamsh Kassim-Lakhani.
