Karachi, Pakistan, 26 February 2025 - With Princess Zahra Aga Khan in attendance, 473 women and men graduated from the Aga Khan University (AKU) in Pakistan today, as the University paid tribute to its Founder and first Chancellor, His Late Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV. AKU also welcomed His Highness Prince Rahim Aga Khan V as its new Chancellor, and Princess Zahra as its Pro-Chancellor.

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 are 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,” said AKU President Sulaiman Shahabuddin. “In Pakistan, His [Late] Highness created opportunities for millions of people through AKU and the AKDN… Looking out at the Class of 2024 today, I see, we all see, how right he was. I see women and men who are, without question, ready to play their part in creating a world that is rich in opportunity.” Read President Sulaiman Shahabuddin's speech.

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.

“Princess Zahra’s appointment shows His Highness’ strong determination to build on and advance the legacy of our Founding Chancellor and his strong commitment to the mission and vision of the University,” said Chair Mahmood. He cited Princess Zahra’s deep understanding of AKU’s plans, programmes and founding vision, and her close involvement in its growth and evolution over two decades. Read Chair Zakir Mahmood's statement.

“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, has become the Chancellor,” 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.” Read Princess Zahra Aga Khan's speech.

“His [Late] 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,” said Valedictorian Mustafa Saiyoum. “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.”

The University also honoured outstanding faculty and students for their achievements in research, teaching and academic excellence.

The Karachi ceremony marked the culmination of a week of graduations across AKU’s campuses, with Princess Zahra attending celebrations in East Africa – Kampala, Nairobi and Dar es Salaam – where the University awarded its 5,000th degree or diploma in the region. Those ceremonies also reflected on the University’s past and future, honouring its founding Chancellor, His Late Highness Aga Khan IV, while celebrating its continued growth. Graduates earned degrees in a range of fields including nursing, midwifery, medicine, education, digital journalism and media leadership.