Institute for the Study of Muslim Civilisations | The Aga Khan University

In accordance with AKU’s charter, His Highness Prince Rahim Aga Khan V has assumed the role of Chancellor of the Aga Khan University. He is the eldest son of the Founding Chancellor, His Late Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV and succeeded him as the 50th hereditary Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims on 4th February 2025. His Highness Prince Rahim Aga Khan is also the Chair of the Aga Khan Development Network.

INSTITUTE FOR THE STUDY OF MUSLIM CIVILISATIONS

Welcome to the Aga Khan University's Institute for the Study of Muslim Civilisations (AKU-ISMC). We are a leading institution in higher education dedicated to advancing research, publications, graduate studies, and public discourse on the historical and contemporary roles of Muslims globally. Our approach encompasses the rich and diverse nature of Muslim civilisations within the broader spectrum of world cultures and societies. 

At AKU-ISMC, our academic pursuits are organised into: Digital Scholarship, and three geographically focused knowledge domains: The Indian Ocean, Iran and Central Asia, and The Mediterranean. We view these regions as dynamic zones of interaction and exchange in which to examine how Muslim contexts—across different periods and places—are continually influenced by processes such as cultural evolution, technological advancement, migration, and environmental changes. 

Our research, and academic, and public-facing efforts are driven by Aga Khan University’s core values of impact, quality, relevance, and accessibility. We are committed to producing work that not only contributes to academic knowledge but also engages with broader public discussions and addresses pressing contemporary issues. 