In a world where the quest for better health is paramount, Aga Khan University (AKU) stands as a beacon of excellence, now recognised among the top 5 per cent of higher education institutions globally for 'Good Health and Well-Being'.

According to the Times Higher Education (THE) 2024 Impact Rankings, AKU has secured an impressive 55th position out of 1,498 institutions worldwide, highlighting its unwavering commitment to Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3.

The heart of AKU's success lies in its holistic approach to education, research, and health services.

The University's dedication to advancing SDG 3 is evident in its remarkable achievements across three key categories: prolific research output, the graduation of students in health-related fields, and robust collaborations with health services.

An in-depth bibliometric analysis reveals that AKU faculty have published over 2,500 works on SDG 3 between 2017 and 2023, underscoring the institution's focus on health and well-being.

Read More

  1. Aga Khan University Hospital pioneers revolutionary gynaecological surgery
  2. World Lung Cancer Day: AstraZeneca pioneers new era of care in Africa
  3. Aga Khan University secures Sh19.7 million grant for cervical cancer research

Dr Salim Virani, AKU Vice Provost of Research, reflects on this achievement, stating, "The global relevance of AKU scholarship is further demonstrated by the fact that nearly 80 per cent of faculty publications in 2022 were aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals."

He adds, "If we examine the past, we see that research at AKU has grown rapidly in volume, quality, diversity, recognition, impact and reach. If we examine the present, it is clear that the University's research capacity is impressive, especially given its youth compared to many universities and the fact that it operates in resource-limited environments."

AKU's innovative integration of Sustainable Development Goals into its curriculum sets it apart.

The University offers specialised SDG courses at the Institute for Global Health and Development and the Institute for Educational Development.

Moreover, the School of Nursing and Midwifery embeds SDGs into its postgraduate curriculum, preparing graduates to address complex health challenges.

This alignment with national government policies and curriculum development demonstrates AKU's comprehensive approach to education.

Beyond SDG 3, AKU makes significant scholarly contributions to SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), showcasing its commitment to broader sustainable development goals.

The University's holistic educational model not only equips students with the knowledge to tackle global health issues but also fosters future leaders who can drive positive change in their communities.

AKU's partnership with the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) and collaboration with Aga Khan Health Services further amplifies its impact.

Working in resource-limited environments, AKU exemplifies resilience and innovation, striving to achieve health for all in the regions it serves.

This steadfast dedication is reflected in the University's consistent top ranking for SDG 3, year after year

As AKU continues to shine on the global stage, it inspires hope and progress in the realm of health and well-being. Its unwavering commitment to excellence, quality, and healthcare not only earns it international recognition but also cements its role as a transformative force in higher education.

Through its cutting-edge academic programmes, AKU nurtures critical and creative thinkers poised to address the world's most pressing health challenges, making a meaningful impact far beyond the University walls.