In today’s rapidly evolving, technology-driven world, the demand for lifelong learning is greater than ever. The Aga Khan University (AKU) has launched LEADS—Lifelong Learning, Education And Development of Skills—a programme offering flexible and accessible pathways to continuing education. Designed especially for individuals in underserved regions, LEADS eliminates barriers to access and supports learners at all stages of their educational journeys.
“LEADS will help to empower people from all walks of life, in resource-limited areas, including low- and middle-income countries,” said Dr Anjum Halai, Professor and Vice Provost at AKU. By providing virtual learning opportunities, LEADS enables individuals to reach across the digital divide and develop diverse skills that help them to enter the workforce, improve their financial status and sustain their livelihoods.
Dr Tania Bubela, AKU Provost, highlighted the significance of the LEADS programme, “learners need to see themselves reflected in the course materials and the instructors. It is so important that we have courses developed by people from the region, for communities within that region.”
The programme was commended by Chief Guest, Gijs Walraven, Director for Health of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) and the General Manager of the Aga Khan Health Service (AKHS), who said, “LEADS is a great platform – one we should all make use of. It is more beneficial to those living in remote areas and find it difficult to access learning as compared to those who live in urban settings.”
The LEADS programme is not limited to simply students and career professionals. It is expected to enable skill development to all with limited access to travel and interrupted education. The courses, spanning from beginner to advanced levels, can be accessed conveniently on everyday mobile devices, ensuring greater inclusivity and accessibility.
Key Features of LEADS
- Flexible Learning Pathways: LEADS provides multiple entry and re-entry points for learners at any stage of their educational journey. It integrates formal and informal education systems, recognizing and accrediting skills acquired through diverse learning experiences.
- Accessible: The courses offered by AKU LEADS would be largely virtual and asynchronous (e.g., self-paced) and suitable for contexts with low-bandwidth internet. Provisions will also be made to bridge the digital divide by ensuring broadband access where needed.
- Globally Recognized Micro-Credentials and Digital Badges: With LEADS, participants will earn micro-credentials and digital badges that verify their knowledge and skills. Each course offers clear standards and assessment, ensuring that achievements are credible, portable, and valued by AKU and beyond.
LEADS has been approved by the AKU Board of Trustees and is being piloted in Syria and Afghanistan in the fields of family medicine and Early Childhood Development. Upcoming courses include Basic English Learning, Problem Solving Skills in Mathematics, as well as offering in the fields of Allied Health Sciences, Teacher Training, Youth Development and Women Leadership.
Reflecting on the programme, Dr Sulaiman Shahabuddin, President of AKU, said, “LEADS will be a gamechanger. It is completely aligned with AKU’s values of IQRA and will set the university for its next stage of development and growth. I would love for LEADS to become a magnet to which many other entities can contribute.”
Learn more about LEADS
here.
