Internship Experiences

Interns will be placed in unique locations through Aga Khan University International Internship Programme (IIP). In addition to the office and field environments related to your position, the cities you will be living in will provide a wealth of activities for you to engage in. Please read the following testimonials from previous interns to gain a better sense of their experiences at AKU:

	Shelina (left) with her supervisor

Shelina Poonja
Management Trainee
Public Affairs, AKU Karachi

"Working at AKU has been a positive growing experience. The people, the environment and culture teach me something new everyday. I've seen how diversity and professionalism work hand in hand to run an institution. Furthermore, Karachi is a centre of urban colours. With different places to eat, abundance of shopping areas and non stop buzz, there is always something to do!  In addition, there are several day trips just a few hours away that allow individuals to gain a historical perspective of Sindh. Coming to AKU has been fabulous experience!"  

	Aly-Khan (left) at a community mobilisation campaign for the   problem of solid waste in Karachi slums

Aly-Khan Visram
Senior Research Officer
Human Development Programme, AKU Karachi

"My experiences at AKU have given me a rich and varied exposure to public health issues and public health research in Pakistan. The work has been challenging and has fostered a sense of professionalism and confidence in myself. AKU is certainly a hub of activity; the multi-disciplinary environment at AKU is second to none in Pakistan and can easily provide a valuable learning experience to anybody who is willing to work hard for it. The experience does not stop at the end of the work day. The mega-city of Karachi has it all, from good food and fresh fruit, to classical music concerts and endless alleyways of shopping bazaars - everyday is another adventure in Karachi !"

	Kurt standing beside a small windmill during Earth Day celebrations  day at AKU

Kurt Archer
International Internship Programme Coordinator
Planning and Partnerships Development Office, AKU Karachi

“There is so much one can get involved in here at AKU that anyone with a curious mind can go very far. On a day-to-day basis I interact with various classes of society, locals and many other expats, I work on issues of international relations with other countries, and experience the rich culture of Pakistan. Additionally the facilities allow for a healthy lifestyle at very affordable rates! During the past year I have visited everything from the poorest parts of the city to the richness in cultural heritage. I got to volunteer with CHS on environmental projects and sat through a wide variety of thought-provoking presentations on everything from health, society, media to Sufism. This kind of experience just goes to show that everyday in Karachi truly is a new experience, and one that welcomes the open and eager hearts to explore. Being a role model institution and hospital in the developing world, it has been possibly the greatest pleasure to grow professionally, with an abundant source of exceptional mentors that helped guide me toward my future goals. Indeed my experience here at AKU has been very fruitful."

Photo Gallery