Executive Director welcomes a diverse delegation from AKESP and AKHSS
January 21-30, 2024: Executive Director, IBA Karachi, Dr. S Akbar Zaidi, in collaboration with the National Talent Hunt Program (NTHP) Team, warmly welcomed a delegation representing the Agha Khan Education Services Pakistan (AKESP) and Agha Khan Higher Secondary Schools (AKHSS) from diverse regions including Chitral, Gilgit Baltistan, Hyderabad, and Karachi. The purpose of this visit was to strengthen collaborative efforts and foster academic exchange among educational institutions.
The delegation comprised esteemed members including Shams Ul Haq, Manager, AKUEB Support Unit; Mr. Saifuddin, National Coordinator AKESP (ISB); Mr. Tufail Nawaz, Senior Manager, AKUEB Support Unit; Bibi Sultana, Senior Principal, AKHSS Kuragh; Nazleen Iqbal Lalani, Head of Student Affairs (AKHSS Karachi); and Dr. Hina Velji, Principal AKS School, Karimabad, along with several regional coordinators, student counselors, and school principals.
This visit aimed to promote a sense of community and explore the range of educational programs offered, spanning undergraduate, graduate, postgraduate, and certification levels.
During the visit, the delegation engaged in fruitful discussions with key figures at the IBA, including Dr. Zaidi; Dr. Abdullah Zafar, Dean SBS; Dr. Sahar Awan, Chairperson BBA Program; Dr. Shakeel Khoja, Dean SMCS; Dr. Hisham Bin Zubair, Chairperson Mathematical Sciences; Dr. Shahid Hussain, Chairperson Computer Science; Dr. Asma Hyder, Dean SESS; Dr. Laila Farooq, Chairperson SSLA; Dr. Heman Das Lohano, Program Director Economics & Eco. & Maths; Dr. Danish Ali, Program Coordinator BS-Mathematics; and Irum Iqbal Hussain, Program Director BS-SSLA program. Topics ranged from admission procedures to international student exchange programs, showcasing the diverse opportunities available at IBA.
The delegation also had the opportunity to tour IBA, engaging with various departments and centers such as the Financial Assistance Department, Student Affairs Department, Career Development Center (CDC), Wellness Counselors, and heads of Centers of Excellence including Dr. Lalarukh Ejaz, Director AMAN CED; and Mr. Kamran Bilgrami, Director CEE. These interactions facilitated discussions on potential collaborations and academic exchange programs.
Furthermore, the delegation participated in various activities aimed at providing a comprehensive understanding of IBA's academic environment. This included exploring the ICT labs, which offered insights into the technological infrastructure available for students and the practical aspects of education. Additionally, a meeting with the Durbeen Program allowed discussions on educational initiatives and teaching methodologies, fostering potential collaborations between IBA and the program.
Interactions with IBA students, particularly those from regions represented in the delegation, provided a valuable opportunity for the exchange of perspectives and connections within the academic community. Attending a cultural event further enriched the experience, promoting cultural exchange and appreciation.
Furthermore, a dinner hosted by Dr. Zaidi created an informal setting for networking with the IBA leadership. Lastly, a dedicated meeting with the Dean addressed queries regarding admissions, testing procedures, financial assistance, and various Center of Excellence programs, enhancing the delegation's understanding of IBA's academic structure and policies.
The visit extended to IBA City Campus, offering additional insights into academic centers and initiatives, reaffirming the commitment to mutual growth and academic excellence. Overall, the visit fostered meaningful exchanges and laid the groundwork for future collaborations between the Agha Khan Community delegation and IBA.
