KARACHI: Four hundred seventy-three graduates in different disciplines were awarded degrees at the AKU convocation held recently. Speakers at the convocation paid tributes to its late Founder and first Chancellor, His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan. His Highness Prince Rahim Aga Khan the new Chancellor, and Princess Zahra the new Pro-Chancellor also graced the occasion with their presence.
Students earned bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in 16 different fields in nursing, medicine and education. More than 70 percent of the graduates were women. To date, AKU has awarded nearly 16,000 degrees, diplomas and postgraduate certificates in Pakistan.
“Our founding Chancellor once said that the cornerstone of his vision was opportunity – the opportunity to build a better life for oneself and one’s family,” President Sulaiman Shahabuddin said. “In Pakistan, His Highness created opportunities for millions of people through AKU and the AKDN. Looking out at the Class of 2024 today, I see women and men who are, without question, ready to play their part in creating a world that is rich in opportunity.”
The longest-serving member of AKU’s Board of Trustees, Princess Zahra was appointed by His Highness Prince Rahim Aga Khan V to serve as the University’s Pro-Chancellor and act on his behalf. Her appointment was announced by Chair of the Board of Trustees Zakir Mahmood.
“It brings me much happiness that my brother, His Highness Prince Rahim Aga Khan, in accordance with my father’s wishes and the founding charter of AKU. In her speech Princess Zahra said “I am deeply honoured that His Highness has appointed me Pro-Chancellor of AKU, so that, together—in our respective roles—we may continue to sustain and strengthen this remarkable institution, remaining true to our father’s vision for the University.”
“His Highness the Aga Khan’s vision of pluralism as vital to our existence reminds us of the diverse community we have built here and the inclusive world we aim to shape,” Valedictorian Mustafa Seyoum said. “As graduates of AKU, we are charged with the responsibility to carry this vision forward—to bridge gaps, create solutions and be agents of positive change.”
Saira Parveen received the School of Nursing and Midwifery’s Outstanding Graduate Award, and Shahnoor Ahmed received the Medical College’s Best Graduate Award.
Associate Prof. Shabina Ariff and Professor Sarah Saleem received the Award of Excellence in Research, Dean Adil Haider received the Award of Distinction and Professor Muhammad Rizwan Khan received the Award of Excellence in Teaching. (PR)
