The Aga Khan University (AKU) was a prominent participant in the recent Global Encounters Festival in Dubai, an event that brought together thousands from the Ismaili community across the globe. AKU's presence highlighted its history and mission, inviting a new generation to join its efforts in expanding knowledge, improving health, and empowering communities.
At the centre of AKU’s participation was its ‘A Transformative Vision’ exhibition, which attracted over 5,100 visitors. The immersive displays chronicled the University’s journey through powerful visuals and rare archival material. For the first time, a Virtual Reality (VR) component was included, allowing attendees to take a guided tour of AKU’s various campuses and research centres, including a special preview of the upcoming Kampala campus. This interactive experience offered a unique insight into the University's constant evolution and its commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of people it serves.
The festival was also a platform for AKU to reconnect with its extensive network of alumni, donors, and supporters. A special ‘Friends of AKU’ reunion drew approximately 300 attendees, providing a private viewing of the exhibition and an opportunity for conversations with University leadership. This event served to acknowledge the generosity and contributions of the community, which are essential to the University's progress. It was also a moment for alumni to network and celebrate their shared purpose of serving humanity.
Beyond its institutional showcase, AKU used the festival to advocate for a pressing global issue: climate change. The University urged festival attendees to become climate ambassadors within their own networks, recognizing the impact of environmental degradation on communities globally. To support this call to action, AKU highlighted its various climate initiatives and its long-term commitment to tackling environmental issues.
A special and engaging panel discussion led by Dr Zulfiqar Bhutta, Founding Director of AKU’s Institute for Global Health and Development, and AKU President Sulaiman Shahabuddin explored the University's efforts in tackling climate crises in the Global South. They delivered deep insights into AKU’s innovative solutions to empower communities, and its commitment to driving sustainable development in some of the world’s most vulnerable regions.
AKU also hosted a screening of the internationally acclaimed documentary series Voices from the Roof of the World (VRW), which captured stories of resilience from communities on the front lines of climate change. In addition, a masterclass for young and aspiring filmmakers was conducted by Andrew Tkach, VRW’s Executive Producer and an eight-time Emmy Award winner who flew in from France for the session, together with Shanta Nepali, one of the series’ filmmakers.
VRW is a joint initiative of the Aga Khan Development Network agencies: Aga Khan University, Aga Khan Agency for Habitat, Aga Khan Foundation, and the University of Central Asia, made possible with the support of Ross Beaty, the Sitka Foundation, Gulshan Kassamali Jiwa Family, Prince Sadruddin Aga Khan Fund for the Environment, and the Jenabai Hussainali Shariff Family. Season four will be released later this year.
