Karachi: The Aga Khan University Examination Board (AKU-EB) has celebrated its High Achievers of 2026, recognizing students whose academic successes highlight their dedication and aspirations. The event, themed "The Light Within," marks a significant step towards the board's upcoming Silver Jubilee in 2027, celebrating 25 years of enhancing educational quality and expanding educational pathways across Pakistan.
According to The Aga Khan University, the 2026 examinations saw participation from over 26,000 students, with 124 national and regional high achievers being recognized, including two national position holders at the Secondary School Certificate (SSC) and Higher Secondary School Certificate (HSSC) levels. An additional 450 students were acknowledged for their outstanding performance in various subjects nationwide.
The event featured addresses from Professor Dr. Huma Baqai, Rector of the Millennium Institute of Technology and Entrepreneurship, and Dr. Ghulam Ali Mallah, CEO of the Inter Boards Coordination Commission, among other dignitaries. Professor Dr. Huma Baqai emphasized the importance of celebrating the students not just for their academic achievements but for the skills they have developed for future challenges. Hafsa Bugti, a National High Achiever from IBA Community College, Kairpur, highlighted the potential within Sindh, advocating for increased access to quality education to unlock opportunities on an international scale.
AKU-EB's impact is evidenced by its University Destination Survey, which shows that 90 percent of its HSSC graduates secure university admissions. In 2026, the board awarded 540 merit- and need-based scholarships, aiding students in pursuing their academic dreams. Dr. Ghulam Ali Mallah praised AKU-EB's commitment to quality-driven assessment, noting its focus on conceptual understanding and critical thinking over rote learning as a model for the broader educational system in Pakistan.
Since its establishment in 2002, AKU-EB has promoted an educational approach that moves beyond rote memorization, preparing students for real-world challenges. Dr. Naveed Yousuf, CEO of AKU-EB, emphasized the board's ongoing commitment to providing access to quality education, nurturing student potential, and preparing them for meaningful societal contributions.