The civilisations of the Muslim world from 800 to 1600 A.D. included the Ottoman Empire and the courts of Baghdad, Damascus and Cairo, as well as enlightened rulers who promoted intellectual endeavours that created new knowledge. Although, modern Western civilisation has benefited from the contributions of the Islamic world, most are unaware of the debt they owe to its great scholars, scientists and physicians.

Muslim architects designed buildings that appeared to defy gravity. Mathematicians created algebra and algorithms that centuries later enabled the building of computers and the development of software. The men of medicine examined the human body, understood and documented how it worked, and found cures for diseases. When the other nations were afraid of ideas, the Islamic civilizations thrived on them. When censors threatened to wipe out knowledge from past civilisations, Muslims kept the knowledge alive and passed it on to the others.

Following in this tradition, the aim of Aga Khan University is to develop the knowledge leaders of tomorrow. It has to achieve this aim in the context of accelerating pace of change globally, of geo-political and social dynamics that threaten to divide societies, and in a world exploding at once with knowledge and ignorance, where the impact of technology can be empowering or isolating.

AKU draws upon the great traditions of Islam and other religions and cultures to prepare its students by teaching critical thinking, problem solving and decision making, while inculcating moral reasoning, ethical behaviour and respect for others. AKU’s vision is to be a powerful force for pluralism that promotes diverse thinking, intellectual openness and increased understanding between people of different societies.

With campuses and programmes on three continents, AKU is a role model in the developing world for academic, research and service programmes in health and education. As a private University, it provides students access to higher education of an international standard based solely on merit, their potential for leadership and motivation to excel. Its programmes and services are open to all, regardless of faith, creed, origin or gender.

The University is now embarking upon an expansion, in terms of the geographies, disciplines and programmes, to extend its reach and impact. With the proposed undergraduate Faculty of Arts and Sciences and graduate schools in Pakistan, the planning and establishment of new campuses in East Africa and the recent partnership for the French Medical Institute for Children in Kabul, as well as related programmes in Afghanistan, AKU is focused on earning its reputation as an international university. Its stature will continue to be based on its uncompromising adherence to merit, its quality of academic programmes, research and services, and its relevance and input to the developing world.

In its short history, it has become a valued and trusted partner of governments, universities and international agencies who share the University's strong belief in the potential of human capital, ingenuity and enterprise to build communities and improve lives. It is establishing a growing reputation for the quality and innovation of its programmes, in its ability to undertake problem-based research, and in its role as an agent of change in the developing world.

Assuming the Presidency of AKU in May 2006, my focus will be to build on its strong foundation to extend its reach and impact. Guided by the vision of the Chancellor, His Highness the Aga Khan; the wisdom of the Board of Trustees; dedication of the faculty, staff and students and the continued support of well wishers and donors, AKU aspires to evolve into one of the world’s great universities.

In achieving this vision, Aga Khan University will draw inspiration from the great Muslim scholars and scientists of history. It is committed to constructing societies and institutions that will build on the greatness of Muslim civilisations and to developing educated, forward thinking leaders whose actions will be based on compassion, ethics and moral reasoning.