Karachi Khyber Mail): The Aga Khan University (AKU) in Pakistan celebrated the graduation of 473 students from its Class of 2024 on Wednesday, marking a significant milestone in the institution’s history. The ceremony was attended by Princess Zahra Aga Khan and paid tribute to the University’s late Founder and first Chancellor, His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV. AKU also welcomed His Highness Prince Rahim Aga Khan V as its new Chancellor, with Princess Zahra assuming the role of Pro-Chancellor.
Graduates received bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in 16 disciplines across nursing, medicine, and education, with over 70 percent of them being women. Since its inception, AKU has awarded nearly 16,000 degrees, diplomas, and postgraduate certificates in Pakistan.
Addressing the graduates, AKU President Sulaiman Shahabuddin emphasized the University’s commitment to creating opportunities, echoing the vision of its founding Chancellor. “His Highness created opportunities for millions of people through AKU and the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN). Looking at the Class of 2024 today, I see individuals who are ready to build a better future,” he said.
Princess Zahra’s appointment as Pro-Chancellor, announced by Chair of the Board of Trustees Zakir Mahmood, reflects His Highness Prince Rahim Aga Khan’s commitment to continuing the legacy of his late father. “Her appointment demonstrates the strong conviction in the mission and vision of the University,” Mahmood said, highlighting her deep involvement in AKU’s growth over the past two decades.
Expressing her gratitude, Princess Zahra remarked, “It brings me much happiness that my brother, His Highness Prince Rahim Aga Khan, has become Chancellor. I am deeply honored to serve as Pro-Chancellor, ensuring that we continue to sustain and strengthen this remarkable institution, staying true to our father’s vision.”
Valedictorian Mustafa Saiyoum underscored the University’s commitment to pluralism and inclusivity, urging fellow graduates to be agents of positive change. “We are charged with the responsibility to carry this vision forward—to bridge gaps, create solutions, and contribute to a more inclusive world,” he said.
The ceremony also recognized outstanding achievements, with Saira Parveen receiving the School of Nursing and Midwifery’s Outstanding Graduate Award and Shahnoor Ahmed earning the Medical College’s Best Graduate Award. Faculty members were honored for their contributions, including Associate Professor Shabina Ariff and Professor Sarah Saleem, who received the Award of Excellence in Research, while Dean Adil Haider was presented with the Award of Distinction. Professor Muhammad Rizwan Khan received the Award of Excellence in Teaching.
The event not only celebrated academic excellence but also reaffirmed AKU’s role in shaping future leaders dedicated to service and innovation.