Professor Anjum Halai, Founding Dean for the Faculty of Arts and Sciences and Regional Vice-Provost, was conferred the Award of Distinction at the Aga Khan University (AKU) Convocation, on Saturday 18 March, 2023.
The Award recognises and honours outstanding persons who have contributed constructively and consistently to the development of the University.
For almost 30 years, Professor Halai has been part
“ I am deeply honoured that my peers and my University have recognized my contributions. I dedicate this Award to my dear parents Mahfuza Halai and Asghar Ali Halai, who believed strongly in the power of education in empowering both girls and boys.”
of AKU. She graduated in 1995 with an MEd from its Institute for Educational Development (IED) in Pakistan and in 1998, she joined IED as a faculty member. Professor Halai then pursued her doctoral studies at Oxford University and after completing her studies, she resumed her role at AKU and has continued to serve in different leadership positions.
Professor Halai is internationally recognised for her expertise and experience in education and development, especially in low and midlle income countries. She is an elected vice-president of the International Commission of Mathematical Instruction, an influential body supported by UNESCO and the International Mathematical Union. She has served on the global education advisory board of the Open Society Foundations New York and is a Salzburg Fellow.
Through her leadership roles at AKU, Professor Halai has ensured that the principles of quality, rigour and academic autonomy are protected and valued via the University Research Council and the University Appointments and Promotions Committee.
As founding Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Professor Halai led the development of financial plans and creating a cutting-edge curricula to give students the skills and knowledge to help solve some of the world’s greatest challenges and prepare for a ever-changing, complex world.
During her long-standing career, Anjum Halai has inspired young women to achieve their potential and fulfil their academic ambitions. She led the development of a policy on awareness and prevention of gender-based harassment. She is a founding member of the Women’s Leadership Academy at AKU and of the Women’s Leadership Group set up by the National Academy of Higher Education of the Higher Education Commission Pakistan.
Through her contributions globally, Anjum Halai’s impact reaches beyond Pakistan. Her legacy lives on as she encourages future generations to be passionate about serving their country and giving back to a world that is constantly evolving.
