It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Yusuf Habib Keshavjee, a former Trustee of AKU and a pillar of our University community. Yusuf passed away on September 12, 2025 in Nairobi.
Yusuf's journey at AKU began in 2006 when he was appointed by AKU's Founding Chancellor to the Board of Trustees. His tenure, which lasted until 2021, coincided with a pivotal time of growth and internationalization for the University, particularly its expansion in East Africa. As a Trustee, Yusuf played an indispensable role, providing a crucial regional perspective that informed and enriched our governance and strategic direction. The Board benefitted from Yusuf's deep understanding of the diverse East African landscape, which allowed him to analyse issues with a nuanced and invaluable local insight.
Following his retirement from the Board, Yusuf continued his contribution to AKU's development as the Special Advisor to the newly established AKU-Kenya University Council, a role that he served in until his demise.
Yusuf was an empowering leader. His contributions to social and educational initiatives within the University and the broader Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) have had a significant impact. Beyond his formal roles, he was a beacon of wisdom and genuine care. He had a unique ability to listen and understand, always seeking to empower and elevate others. His legacy is etched not only in the institutions he served but in the many individuals he inspired.
We remember Yusuf not just for his dedicated service but for his thoughtfulness, his creative spirit, and his genuine friendship. His life stands as a testament to compassion and unwavering support for human dignity. The institutions he helped to grow and the lives he touched will continue to thrive, carrying forward the spirit of his contributions.
We extend our deepest sympathies to his wife, Shariffa, his children Tasreen, Irfan and Salim during this time of loss. Yusuf Keshavjee's wise counsel and compassionate leadership will remain an integral part of AKU's foundation.
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Yusuf Habib Keshavjee, a former Trustee of AKU and a pillar of our University community. Yusuf passed away on September 12, 2025 in Nairobi.
Yusuf's journey at AKU began in 2006 when he was appointed by AKU's Founding Chancellor to the Board of Trustees. His tenure, which lasted until 2021, coincided with a pivotal time of growth and internationalization for the University, particularly its expansion in East Africa. As a Trustee, Yusuf played an indispensable role, providing a crucial regional perspective that informed and enriched our governance and strategic direction. The Board benefitted from Yusuf's deep understanding of the diverse East African landscape, which allowed him to analyse issues with a nuanced and invaluable local insight.
Following his retirement from the Board, Yusuf continued his contribution to AKU's development as the Special Advisor to the newly established AKU-Kenya University Council, a role that he served in until his demise.
Yusuf was an empowering leader. His contributions to social and educational initiatives within the University and the broader Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) have had a significant impact. Beyond his formal roles, he was a beacon of wisdom and genuine care. He had a unique ability to listen and understand, always seeking to empower and elevate others. His legacy is etched not only in the institutions he served but in the many individuals he inspired.
We remember Yusuf not just for his dedicated service but for his thoughtfulness, his creative spirit, and his genuine friendship. His life stands as a testament to compassion and unwavering support for human dignity. The institutions he helped to grow and the lives he touched will continue to thrive, carrying forward the spirit of his contributions.
We extend our deepest sympathies to his wife, Shariffa, his children Tasreen, Irfan and Salim during this time of loss. Yusuf Keshavjee's wise counsel and compassionate leadership will remain an integral part of AKU's foundation.
