The Aga Khan University

Aga Khan University-East Africa (AKU-EA) is a pioneering not-for-profit institution with a strong presence in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, dedicated to advancing quality of life through world-class teaching, research, and healthcare. Since its establishment in the region in 2000 as part of the Aga Khan Development Network, AKU has become one of East Africa’s leading private universities, with campuses and teaching hospitals in Nairobi, Dar es Salaam, and Kampala. Its mission is to develop skilled leaders and generate knowledge to address pressing health challenges. AKU’s impact is widely recognized: its hospitals were the first in the region accredited by the Joint Commission International, and its graduates and research have shaped health policy and practice nationally and internationally. Today, nearly one-third of AKU’s students are enrolled in East Africa, reflecting its commitment to local capacity building. Founded in 2004, AKU’s Medical College embodies this mission by providing a full continuum of medical education, from the six-year MBChB degree to postgraduate residencies in nine specialties and advanced fellowships in areas such as Cardiology and Infectious Diseases. With internationally aligned curricula and an emphasis on leadership and service, the College produces highly competent, compassionate physicians. Alumni play pivotal roles in strengthening regional health systems, with many serving in public healthcare and leadership positions. Faculty and students conduct impactful research on maternal and child health, ageing and health, chronic disease, and epidemics, often in collaboration with global partners. Supported by major grants, AKU has gained international recognition, ranking among the top 300 universities worldwide for medical research.