Mental health concerns are now at the top of the list of threats to the economic and social well-being of the people and communities served by AKU. Children and youth, a huge demographic in served countries, are especially vulnerable with large proportions of the population already suffering the lifelong consequences of inaction.

The Brain and Mind Institute is an entity that operates across the Aga Khan University’s multi-country campuses, connecting the rich tapestry of academic entities, and facilitating interdisciplinary research, education and related clinical programming in mental health and neurosciences. 

The institute aims at improving mental and brain health across lifespan. It has developed an Integrated Mental Health Framework ​, and its work program involves 4 pillars: