A landmark study by Aga Khan University (AKU) has shed new light on the career paths of its medical graduates over 35 years, uncovering significant gender disparities in leadership and research within the health care sector. The research, published in the esteemed journal BMC Medical Education, provides an in-depth look at the processional journeys of AKU Medical College alumni from 1988 to 2021.
Conducted by Dr Adil Haider, Dr Muhammad Tariq, and their team, this study is the first of its kind in South Asia to analyse such long-term outcomes of medical education. Researchers gathered data from 862 alumni, achieving an impressive 55.2% response rate, and collected information on advanced training, leadership roles, academic achievements, and contributions to health care and education.
The study revealed clear disparities despite an even split of male and female respondents. Men were more likely to pursue surgical specialties, obtain fellowships, and hold academic appointments. While a remarkable 95% of female graduates were employed, they were less likely to occupy leadership positions or engage in high-impact research. Conversely, male graduates more frequently received research funding, academic awards, and held administrative or clinical leadership positions. Even though 68.9% of all alumni engaged in research, men were more prone to publishing and securing grants.
However, the study also highlighted areas where women excelled, particularly in curriculum innovation and educational leadership. This indicates a strong presence of female leadership in academic development.
A significant finding was the international migration of AKU alumni, with approximately 70.9% now residing in the United States. Many of these graduates continue to collaborate with institutions in Pakistan, fostering valuable cross-border knowledge exchange and what researchers refer to as “brain circulation.”
"At Aga Khan University, we are proud to empower our alumni to lead and innovate in health care,” said Dr Tania Bubela, AKU Provost and Vice President Academic. “The study’s findings reflect the transformative impact of our medical education programs, especially for women, and our commitment to an environment for future global health leaders.”
Dr Adil Haider, the study’s first author, underscored the urgency of the findings. “It’s a startling reality that while women in South Asia now make up the majority of medical students, more than half don’t go on to practice, and only a fraction reach leadership roles.” he stated. “But this trend isn’t irreversible. Our research shows that change is possible, and Aga Khan University is proof. With 95% of female graduates practicing and 54% of leadership roles held by women, AKU demonstrates what’s achievable when institutions commit to equity. If one institution can do it, others can too.”
The study calls for systemic reforms, including targeted mentorship programmes for women, leadership development opportunities, and policies promoting research inclusivity. By examining 35 years of outcomes, the research serves as a benchmark for AKU and a call to action for medical institutions worldwide to address gender disparities and foster equitable opportunities in health care leadership.
The research team included Dr Adil Haider, Maham Vaqar, Asma Altaf Hussain Merchant, Sharjeel Ahmad, Komal Abdul Rahim, Namra Qadeer Shaikh, Noreen Afzal, Shayan Shah, Anum Rahim, Saad Bin Zafar Mahmood, Saqib Kamran Bakhshi, Sadaf Khan, and Dr Muhammad Tariq.
