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Two hundred and sixty Canadian professionals, comprising physicians,
lawyers, pharmacists, architects and other professions have pledged
5.2 million dollars in contributions to establish a 'Performing
Arts Centre' at the Aga Khan University in Karachi. In recognition
of their generous contributions, a dinner and presentation function
was recently hosted by the Aga Khan University Resource Development
Committee for Ontario. The Canadian donors and invited guests had
an opportunity to meet with the Trustees of the Aga Khan Hospital.
Dr. Karim Merali, Regional Convenor for Ontario, welcomed the distinguished
guests. Toronto's noted cardiologist and spokesman for the group,
Dr. Amir Janmohamed, said that the Performing Arts Centre project
is a gift from Canadian professionals who see the significance of
building cultural and academic bridges with the developing world.
"I think it will also be a small step to fostering world peace and
understanding."
Earlier, in a keynote address, Shamsh Kassim-Lakha, H.I.,
S.I., Trustee & President of the Aga Khan University
said that since its inception, the University has benefited greatly
from its close ties with Canadians and Canadian institutions, which
provided financial assistance of $22 million over the past few years.
"Besides being generous donors, they (Canadians) have played important
roles in the university as faculty members, architects, project
managers, etc.," said Mr. Kassim-Lakha. In his view, "if you will
not go to poverty, poverty will come to you!"
Dr. J. Fraser Mustard, President of the Canadian Institute for
Advanced Research and Trustee of the AKU said, "the Aga Khan University
is a unique institution, and a fine example of Canada's effectiveness
in helping people and institutions in disadvantaged societies."
Firoz Rasul, President of the Ismaili Council for Canada, commended
the AKU on its achievements.
A state-of-the-art video presentation - 'It's Time' - highlighted
the past 20 years of monumental accomplishment of the Aga Khan University
in the health sector of many countries, including Pakistan, 'serving
the developing world and Muslim societies in innovative and enduring
ways.' It reflects the vision of His Highness the Aga Khan, Chancellor
of AKU, that "the vanished glory of Andalusia (Spain) could only
be achieved through pioneering work in the field of higher learning."
The Aga Khan University (AKU) is an international university with
campuses and programs on three continents. It offers students with
access to higher education solely on meritocratic basis, with an
opportunity to develop their potential for leadership and motivating
them to excel. AKU conducts research of universal importance in
health and education. The graduates of AKU are uniquely prepared
for the challenges that face the 21st century. Significantly, it
focuses on the advancement of women and women professionals.
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