The Aga Khan University's Research Office has launched the second cohort of its highly anticipated Research Initiative for Scholars Excellence (RISE) Programme for the Faculty of Health Sciences (FHS), reaffirming its commitment to nurturing research leadership and grant readiness among early-career faculty.
A flagship initiative under AKU's Research Strategic Plan, the RISE Programme is a mentored, longitudinal academy designed to equip emerging scholars with the technical and leadership skills needed to thrive in today's global research landscape. Following the success of its inaugural cohort, which saw several scholars submit competitive grant proposals to external funding agencies and three already secure prestigious international grants, the second cohort was welcomed with enthusiasm, inspiration, and high expectations.
Dr Tania Bubela, AKU Provost, inspired scholars by sharing her journey in research, noting, “There's a language to grant writing—it's not rocket science, but it takes resilience, strategy, and teamwork. The most successful researchers are often those who others want to work with: collaborative, dependable, and curious."
Dr Zulfiqar Bhutta, Distinguished University Professor, underscored the transformative power of research saying, “Health is an investment, not a cost. Research is essential for reducing inequities and improving outcomes, especially in developing contexts like ours. Some of the most impactful work comes from limited resources—what matters most is the idea and the determination to pursue it."
In his concluding remarks, Dr Salim Virani, Vice Provost, Research, and visionary behind the RISE Programme, highlighted the programme's long-term value saying, “This is one of the few initiatives at AKU that will have a lasting impact on our research culture. RISE Programme is not just about writing grants—it's about leadership, career development, and peer-driven learning. We are already seeing early success, with 13 out of 18 scholars from the first cohort submitting extramural grants and three securing funding within just months."
The launch ceremony also included an overview of the new cohort by the Chairs of the RISE Programme, Dr Zahra Hoodbhoy and Dr Anthony Ngugi, as well as introductions of the new 'RISERs' by the Vice-Chairs Dr Ayesha Almas and Dr Muthoni Mwangi.
In a significant development, the Research Office also announced that, following consultations with the Deans of Social Sciences and Humanities (SSH), a new RISE Programme stream has also been launched for SSH faculty. This cross-campus expansion reinforces the University's strategic commitment to fostering a vibrant, interdisciplinary research ecosystem across all its entities in Pakistan and East Africa.
With continued mentorship, institutional support, and a growing culture of collaboration, the RISE Programme is fast becoming a cornerstone of AKU's vision to empower researchers who drive innovation and sustainable development.
