AKU-EB Celebrates High Achievers of Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral at the Professional Development Center, Gilgit

The Aga Khan University Examination Board (AKU-EB) hosted its prestigious High Achievers Ceremony on October 10, 2024, at the Professional Development Centre North (PDCN) in Gilgit, recognising the exceptional accomplishments of students from Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral.

The event, held under the theme “Roots of Hope,” celebrated the students as symbols of hope and progress for their communities and the nation.

Chief Guest Professor, Dr. Anjum Halai, Vice Provost at Aga Khan University, commended the students for their resilience and outstanding academic performance. Reflecting on the evolution of education, she noted, “Today, it is essential that students are equipped with critical thinking skills, problem-solving abilities, decision-making skills, and, most importantly, the ability to learn, unlearn, and relearn.”

Honourable Ms. Shehnaz Wazir Ali, President of SZABIST University, a distinguished leader and advocate for education in Pakistan emphasized the transformative impact of AKU-EB’s innovative approach to education across Pakistan. She said, “The government of Pakistan’s examination boards have a long history behind them. But what the AKU-EB has been able to do in 20 years is absolutely remarkable. AKU-EB is the first examination board of international quality. So, they are not just Pakistan’s high achievers; they have received international recognition. AKU-EB is not only focused on assessment—it goes beyond, diving deep into what is taught and how it’s taught in classrooms.”

This year, AKU-EB proudly launched the Jenabai Scholarship, extending educational support across Pakistan. A total of 59 students from Gilgit-Baltistan, Chitral, and the remotest areas of Jammu and Kashmir were selected as beneficiaries, ensuring that geographic or financial barriers do not impede their access to quality education.

Dr. Naveed Yousuf, Associate Director of Assessment at AKU-EB, welcomed and thanked all participants, emphasizing the importance of collective efforts in student success. He added, “As you step into achieving your aspirations, remember that the world will bring challenges and opportunities. You see changes and advancement in information technology; the emergence of artificial intelligence and, of course, climate change. Working closely with your schools and teachers, the AKU-EB has equipped you to navigate through the unknown with the skills and knowledge you have gained over the years.”

The ceremony also featured a heartfelt speech by Sana Khan, Provincial First Position Holder from Aga Khan Higher Secondary School, Gahkuch, who reflected on her journey and her aspirations: “I promise to work harder, to be a bridge for those who come after me, and to ensure that the Roots of Hope we represent today will one day grow into trees that provide shade for many others.”

The event underscored AKU-EB’s unwavering commitment to fostering academic excellence, supporting students from all backgrounds, and shaping future leaders through education, integrity, and innovation.