Aga Khan University (AKU) strengthened its global leadership in health and research during a series of high-level engagements in Portugal, including the signing of a new memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the University of Coimbra, strategic discussions with Portugal's Ministry of Health, and participation in an international conference on artificial intelligence (AI) in health care. These engagements form part of the longstanding relationship between the Ismaili Imamat and the Portuguese Republic, reflecting a shared commitment to advancing knowledge, innovation and global health, while making enduring contributions to improving the quality of life of communities.
The MoU was signed on July 14, 2026 as part of a broader collaboration involving the University of Coimbra, the Coimbra Local Health Unit, and the Coimbra Academic and Clinical Centre. Announced during a ceremony attended by Portugal's Minister of Health Ana Paula Martins, WHO Regional Director for Europe Dr Hans Henri P. Kluge, Diplomatic representative of the Ismaili Imamat Nazim Ahmad and other relevant political and civil society leaders. The agreement establishes a framework for collaboration in health education, research, and innovation. Similar agreements were also signed with Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin and the World Health Summit.
In remarks delivered during the signing ceremony, Dr Sulaiman Shahabuddin, AKU President highlighted the importance of international collaboration in addressing shared global challenges. "We believe that cross-border partnerships such as the one we are launching today are not optional; they are essential to our success," he said. "I have no doubt that our universities will build a mutually beneficial partnership: one that advances the welfare of the people we serve and strengthens our institutions' capacity to work across borders in an age of shared challenges."
Representatives of the Delegation of the Ismaili Imamat, Portugal and AKU leadership also met with senior officials from Portugal's Ministry of Health to explore future areas of cooperation. Discussions focused on capacity development, research and innovation, health system strengthening, and academic partnerships, reflecting a shared commitment to advancing healthcare through international collaboration.
These engagements were followed by the WHO Europe–Government of Portugal Conference on Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare, held in Lisbon on July 15 and 16, 2026. The conference brought together ministers, policymakers, researchers, clinicians, and global health leaders from 37 countries to advance the responsible adoption of AI in health systems. Discussions focused on governance, ethics, workforce development, digital infrastructure, and practical strategies for implementing AI to improve patient care.
Representing AKU, Professor Salim S. Virani, Vice Provost Research, delivered a keynote presentation on how AI and digital innovation are transforming research and health care at the University, in the presence of seven Health Minister of Lusophone countries, diplomats, health professional and senior cooperation officers. Drawing on AKU's growing portfolio of 338 digital innovation initiatives, including more than 140 research-focused projects, he highlighted how research, innovation, and knowledge sharing can translate emerging technologies into meaningful health impact. Professor Virani also moderated a panel discussion on building sustainable AI ecosystems through stronger institutional capacity, workforce development, and international collaboration.
"Artificial intelligence holds tremendous promise for improving health, but technology alone is not enough," said Professor Virani. "Its true value lies in responsible implementation, strong partnerships, and ensuring that innovation translates into better health outcomes for everyone."
Together, the new partnership with the University of Coimbra, strategic engagement with Portugal's Ministry of Health, and participation in the WHO Europe conference reinforce AKU's commitment to advancing global partnerships, responsible AI innovation, and stronger, more equitable health systems worldwide.
