Let me begin by telling you just how special and unique you are! Amidst a pandemic that shook the world, you stayed strong, persevered in the face of adversity, lockdowns, and a life that suddenly turned topsy-turvy. Many of you even tested positive in the middle of the academic year, yet you emerged stronger than ever. And here you are, graduating at the first global convocation in the history of AKU, as the Class of 2020, a year already very special, as it was globally recognised the Year of the Nurse and Midwife.
While I applaud you on this momentous milestone, I want to also remind you that you are now joining the professional nursing workforce we have so keenly prepared you for. You are now ambassadors of the Aga Khan University as well as the nursing profession. Wherever you practice in the world, you must strive to always uphold the integrity of the institution and become a source of pride for AKU as well as the country.
Graduands of BScN, Post-RN BScN and BScM must work to expand their horizons and explore clinical practice along with nursing academia and research. I urge our master's students to take their knowledge forward and tap into the great potential of advanced nursing roles, now gaining momentum in Pakistan! With the first Nursing PhD graduate this year in Pakistan, our very own Dr Ajani, I am hopeful that a trend of localised knowledge generation will help in enhancing contextual solutions for local healthcare issues.
In the end, no matter where life takes you, always know that our doors remain open for you! As you progress in life, you will achieve so much more. And when you do, know that AKU will always be your home, and will always have your back in propelling you upwards.
Remember, “The mind is not a vessel to be filled, but a fire to be ignited". So set your heart and soul on innovation and passion to reach new heights of excellence in this great profession. The world needs you!
Congratulations once again.
Dr Rozina Karmaliani
Dean, School of Nursing and Midwifery,
Aga Khan University
