AKU Hosts First Model WHO, Empowers Students in Global Health

AKU’s collaboration with WHO, allowed students

from diverse academic backgrounds

to engage in policy-driven discussions

Staff Reporter

Karachi: The Aga Khan University (AKU) recently hosted its first-ever student-led Model-World Health Organization (M-WHO) assembly, providing a platform for in-depth discussions on critical global health challenges. The two-day summit, organized by the Office of the Associate Dean for Graduate Studies and endorsed by the World Health Organization (WHO), was spearheaded by AKU’s Graduate Education Student Society (AGESS).

Addressing Global Health Challenges

AKU’s strong collaboration with WHO set the stage for the event, allowing students from diverse academic backgrounds to engage in policy-driven discussions. The summit focused on pressing health issues, including Universal Health Coverage, Pandemic Resilience, Climate and Health, and Gender Health Equity. Participants worked in committees to develop resolutions and strategies aimed at improving global health policies.

The event also included informal lobbying, negotiations, and coalition-building exercises. Students drafted resolutions addressing key debate questions, followed by consensus-building and voting on proposed solutions.

Expert Insights on Health Governance

Dr. Luo Dapeng, WHO’s Country Representative for Pakistan and the event’s Chief Guest, highlighted the significance of global cooperation in tackling health crises. “People’s health is interconnected across borders. The Model WHO event showcases how young minds can contribute to innovative solutions,” he stated.

AKU Medical College Dean, Dr. Adil Haider, emphasized the real-world impact of such initiatives. “By debating policies, negotiating positions, and drafting resolutions, students gain insights into how governments operate. These experiences build crucial skills in diplomacy, conflict resolution, and policy-making,” he said.

Expanding Future Participation

Professor Shahid Shamim, Associate Dean for Graduate Studies, described the AKU Model-WHO as an innovative learning experience. “This platform enables students from diverse backgrounds to engage in a collaborative and enriching learning environment,” he said, adding that future editions will include participants from other institutions.

The event concluded with awards for the best delegates and position papers, recognizing outstanding student contributions. AKU plans to continue fostering such initiatives, reinforcing its commitment to advancing global health education.