Karachi: Dr. Zulfiqar A. Bhutta, the Founding Director of the Institute for Global Health and Development at Aga Khan University, has been honored with the Virchow Prize 2025 for his pioneering contributions to maternal, newborn, and child health. The award, one of the highest in global health, highlights his influential work in advancing health equity through community-centered research.
The Virchow Prize, awarded by the Virchow Foundation, recognizes outstanding achievements aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals for “Health for All.” Dr. Bhutta shares this year’s award with Professor Quarraisha Abdool Karim from South Africa.
The independent Virchow Prize Committee praised Dr. Bhutta’s transformative policy influence, noting his focus on marginalized communities historically excluded from mainstream health discourse. His work has significantly impacted global health guidelines and national policies, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.
Dr. Bhutta’s career includes over 1,400 scientific publications and advisory roles with organizations like WHO and UNICEF. His efforts have advanced strategies to reduce maternal and child mortality in South-Central Asia, sub-Saharan Africa, and humanitarian settings.
“This award recognizes the contributions of numerous collaborators, students, and trainees who have worked tirelessly on pressing global health issues,” Dr. Bhutta stated. He expressed gratitude for their role in his ongoing journey.
The award is a significant achievement for Aga Khan University, highlighting its commitment to impactful global research. Dr. Sulaiman Shahabuddin, AKU President, expressed pride in Dr. Bhutta’s recognition, emphasizing his dedication to improving health in underserved communities and advancing global health equity.