Ismaili.NET - Heritage F.I.E.L.D.

His Highness the Aga Khan, Chairman of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) and Chancellor of Aga Khan University (AKU), today emphasised the importance of civil society institutions such as AKU, in providing the rapid and effective response to those affected by the 8 October earthquake disaster.

Your ExcellencyPrime Minister Shaukat Aziz
Your Excellency Governor Ishrat-ul-Ebad Honourable
Chief Minister Arbab Ghulam Rahim
Honourable Ministers
Excellencies
Chairman Dehlavi and the Members of the Board of Trustees
President Kassim-Lakha
Graduates and Parents
Generous donors and well wishers of the University,
from Pakistan and around the world
Distinguished guests

Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz here Saturday called upon students in particular and people in general to realize that 21st century focusses on a global society and knowledge based economies where education is to play a key role.

Speaking at Aga Khan University Convocation of 2005 batch, comprising graduates of medical college, school of nursing and institute for educational development, Mr. Aziz said it will be educational quality of the work force that will determine the country's economic performance.

Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz here on Saturday reiterating his commitment towards quality health care for all in Pakistan, with major emphasis on prevention and control of diseases, said the government vision for health sector was based on 'health for all'.Change in education system is need of the hour, he said at Aga Khan University Convocation of 2005 batch, comprising graduates of medical college, school of nursing and institute for educational development.
'We recognize that as a nation we have to continue work towards universal, affordable, quality healthcare for every single Pakistani.'

Presiding over the 18th Convocation of Aga Khan University, the Chancellor of the University, His Highness the Aga Khan announced the retirement of the first president of the University, Shamsh Kassim-Lakha. The Chancellor also introduced to the Convocation, Mr Kassim-Lakha's successor, Firoz Rasul, who will assume the presidency on May 1, 2006.