AKU alumni receive Sitara-e-Imtiaz and Tamgha-e-Imtiaz on Pakistan’s 78th Independence Day
ISLAMABAD: Two Aga Khan University (AKU) alumni have been awarded some of Pakistan’s highest civil honors in recognition of their outstanding contributions to education, healthcare, and humanitarian service. On the nation’s 78th Independence Day, the Government of Pakistan announced that Dr Mola Dad Shafa has been awarded the Sitara-e-Imtiaz (Star of Excellence), while Dr Mansour Memon has been honored with the Tamgha-e-Imtiaz (Medal of Excellence). Both awards will be formally conferred on Pakistan Day, March 23, 2026.
National recognition of AKU’s impact
This milestone highlights the enduring role of Aga Khan University in nurturing leaders who serve Pakistan and the world. Since 1991, AKU’s faculty, staff, and alumni have collectively received over 32 civil awards — reflecting the University’s vision of academic excellence, service, and nation-building.
Dr Mola Dad Shafa: Transforming education in Gilgit-Baltistan
Dr Mola Dad Shafa was recognized for his transformative role as Head of AKU’s Professional Development Centre, North (PDCN) in Gilgit-Baltistan. His leadership in institutional capacity building, teacher training, and systemic reforms elevated education standards across the region.
- PDCN trained more than 25,000 education professionals, strengthening classroom instruction.
- The GB Education Fellows Project, initiated by Dr Shafa, deployed 1,254 teachers in underserved schools, benefiting over 100,000 students.
- His work directly influenced more than 75,000 stakeholders and indirectly impacted millions by promoting knowledge, peace, and coexistence.
- In 2018, the Government of Gilgit-Baltistan recognized PDCN as the “Best Friend of Education,” cementing Dr Shafa’s legacy as a pioneer in educational reform.
Dr Mansour Memon: Humanitarian, physician, and cultural ambassador
Dr Mansour Memon, an AKU graduate of 1991, was honored for his wide-ranging contributions in medicine, humanitarian work, and global advocacy. Widely known as Pakistan’s “Ambassador-at-Large,” Dr Memon has advanced healthcare standards internationally while championing the country’s positive image.
- Mentored and placed hundreds of Pakistani medical graduates into international residency programs.
- Facilitated recruitment of 1,000+ Pakistani healthcare professionals to the GCC, creating new career opportunities.
- Co-founded the Dua-e-Fatima Diabetic & Endocrinology Centre in Hyderabad, offering free healthcare to thousands.
- Led flood relief programs and developed a model village in Sindh as a blueprint for sustainable development.
- Advocated for Pakistani expatriates, including securing the release of prisoners abroad.
- His leadership has earned recognition from global institutions including Fakeeh Health Care (Saudi Arabia), Royal Oman Police, and the Egyptian Pediatric Association.
A shared legacy of excellence
The recognition of Dr Shafa and Dr Memon is not only a tribute to their individual journeys but also a testament to how AKU fosters leaders committed to service, innovation, and global impact. Their achievements stand as inspiration for future generations of Pakistani professionals dedicated to improving lives both at home and abroad.
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