University Archives
About Us
The Aga Khan University Archives is the repository for the historical records and materials of Aga Khan University and its affiliated institutions. Established in 2023, the archives play a vital role in preserving and providing access to the rich history, achievements, and contributions of AKU to education, healthcare, and research in the regions it serves.
Mission
Our mission is to collect, preserve, and make accessible the institutional memory of Aga Khan University. By documenting the University's development, activities, and impact, we support research, teaching, and learning and foster a deeper understanding of AKU's role in advancing knowledge and improving lives.
Collections
The AKU Archives houses various materials, including administrative records, photographs, publications, audiovisual materials, oral histories, and artefacts. Our collections document multiple aspects of the University's history, including its founding and growth, academic programs, research endeavours, healthcare initiatives, and community engagement.
Services
We provide a range of services to support research, teaching, and learning:
Access to archival materials for researchers, scholars, students, and the public.
Reference assistance and research support from our knowledgeable staff.
Reproduction services for digital copies of archival materials.
Outreach and educational programming, including exhibits, workshops, and lectures.
Online Access
Explore our digital collections and resources online, including searchable catalogues, digital exhibits, and research guides. Our website offers convenient access to a wealth of historical materials related to Aga Khan University and its impact on society. As part of our ongoing collaboration under the Our Collections Matter (OCM) Field Projects initiative and our project "Sustainable Archiving: Aligning AKU's Archive Practices with Global Goals" graciously awarded by the International Centre for the Study of the Preservation and Restoration of Cultural Property (ICCROM), we are pleased to offer access to valuable electronic resources in conservation and restoration (primarily archival preservation). These resources can be instrumental in advancing their knowledge and expertise in this field. To get access to OpenAthens@ICCROM Library, please contact the University Archives.
Our Collections Matters - ICCROM 2024 (Enabling Sustainability through Conservation & Collections)
In 2024, the Aga Khan University Archives proudly joined the prestigious ICCROM OCM Field Projects as part of the "Our Collections Matter" initiative. This global program aims to enhance the preservation and management of cultural heritage collections while advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Our project focuses on SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), with a commitment to improving the accessibility, inclusivity, and sustainability of our archival practices. Through this initiative, we are contributing to the global effort to safeguard cultural heritage, while supporting educational excellence and institutional integrity. Our participation underscores the University's dedication to preserving cultural resources in alignment with international standards and the SDGs.
Get Involved
We welcome donations of historical photographs, documents, or any materials you believe are valuable for AKU's history.
To contribute, please use the Donation Form.
Contact Us
For inquiries, research assistance, or to schedule a visit, please contact us at archives@aku.edu or +92-21-34864063. Our dedicated staff are here to assist you in exploring the rich history of Aga Khan University.
Thank you for visiting the Aga Khan University Archives. We look forward to assisting you in your research and exploration of AKU's past and present.
