The Aga Khan University (AKU) has celebrated the graduation of its Class of 2024 in Kenya. With Princess Zahra Aga Khan in attendance, the University paid tribute to its late founder and first Chancellor, His Highness the Aga Khan IV, and welcomed his successor, His Highness Prince Rahim Aga Khan V.
Some 164 women and men were conferred degrees in nursing, midwifery, education, digital journalism, media leadership and medicine. For the first time ever, graduates of the Medical College, East Africa’s fellowship programme participated in Convocation, with 16 fellows receiving certificates in cardiology, medical oncology, neonatology, nuclear medicine and paediatric neurology.
“Our founding Chancellor once said that the cornerstone of his vision was opportunity – the opportunity to build a better life for oneself and one’s family,” President Sulaiman Shahabuddin said. “In Kenya and its neighbours, His Highness created opportunities for millions of people through the Aga Khan Development Network. Here at AKU, he gave our graduates an opportunity they have seized on – to acquire new knowledge, new skills and a new perspective on their capacity to lead change.”
This year’s Convocation was especially meaningful as the institution honoured the legacy of the founder and Chancellor’s visionary leadership, unwavering support and great love,” Princess Zahra Aga Khan said in an emotional address. “Around the world, our alumni embody his aspiration for AKU graduates to be leaders and change agents who transform their professions, take on societal challenges and uplift humanity,” said Zahra.
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At this year’s Convocation, the University marked a significant milestone in its history, as it awarded its 5,000th degree or diploma in East Africa. “Today, we are not just earning degrees,” Valedictorian Elosy Naitore said. “We are builders of a stronger, more inclusive health care system. Whether we treat patients, conduct research, or shape policies, we are part of something greater than ourselves.”
A number of faculty and students were honoured for their outstanding achievements. Top graduates included Cebile Dlamini, Jedidah Ng’ang’a and Elosy Naitore from the School of Nursing and Midwifery, East Africa; Grace Kerongo and Mugisha Tumwine from the Graduate School of Media and Communications. The Medical College recognized outstanding residents, Dr Chemutai Mercy, for Sustained Excellence in Clinical Service, Dr Maryanne Mwangi for Sustained Excellence in Academics, Dr Brian Mongare for Sustained Excellence in Research, and Dr Ivy Wakahora received the Best Performance Award.
Assistant professors Catherine Gathu and Timona Obura received awards for mentorship and clinical teaching, respectively, while Dr Hassanali Ali received the Collaborative Award for Teaching, and Senior Instructor Samuel Otido the Excellence in Teaching Award. Professor Asad Raja was named Distinguished University Professor. Dr Raja is one of only five individuals to have earned this distinction.
From the School of Nursing and Midwifery, Senior Instructor Serah Wachira, Instructor Beth Waweru, and Instructor Evah Maina earned Fellowships of the Higher Education Academy, with Ms Wachira also receiving the Outstanding Teacher Award and Ms Waweru the Public Service Award.
The Graduate School of Media and Communications recognised Assistant Professor Caroline Kiarie and Mr Henry Kibira for teaching, Mr Hesbon Owilla for research, and Associate Professor George Nyabuga and Professor Nancy Booker for public service.
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