Every single day, over 200 volunteers come to the Aga Khan University to make a difference.
To date more than 9,300 dedicated individuals have generously shared their time and knowledge to support the University’s vision of promoting human welfare.
In activities as diverse as raising funds for new research facilities, to running staff facilities on campus, to assisting the teaching hospital during busy periods; volunteers play a vital role.
To celebrate the contribution of these men and women, th
e University held an appreciation event at its auditorium. At the ceremony, AKU’s vice-president of Human Resources, Carol Ariano, lauded the diligence and selflessness shown by volunteers and shared how some have worked at the AKU for 5,000, 10,000 and even over 20,000 hours!
These committed men and women come from all backgrounds, interests and age groups with the University’s youngest volunteer currently being 18-year-old Ramsha Parvez working in human resources and its eldest being 79-year-old Gulshan Alidina who supports staff in the University Hospital's intensive care unit.
Speakers at the event highlighted how the service of volunteers creates a more enlightened, active society while volunteers gain valuable, practical experiences that will be useful wherever they choose to work.
While highlighting the importance of serving society, Ms Ariano quoted a speech made by the University’s Chancellor His Highness the Aga Khan at the Conference on Indigenous Philanthropy in Islamabad in 2000.
“Giving can take many forms - funds, time, ideas, and professional skills. Everyone can and should be a donor, not just the wealthy, and all forms of giving should be encouraged and recognised,” the Aga Khan said.
Speaking about the long-lasting nature of the impact made by volunteers, Mrs Ariano said: “You are part of the AKU family and I must say, a very important family member! Please accept our sincere thanks for the tremendous gift you go on giving. The legacy of your gifts will remain with us forever.”
Letters of appreciation and plaques were given to volunteers on the day and they were encouraged to use their experience to make an even bigger contribution in the future.
