Transformative Partnership for Global Development: Canada and the Aga Khan University

On November 13, 2024, the Aga Khan Foundation Canada (AKFC), a renowned charitable organization led by His Highness the Aga Khan, hosted a special event titled *Transformative Collaboration for Global Development: Canada and the Aga Khan University* at its headquarters on Sussex Drive, one of Ottawa’s most prominent locations (in close proximity to Canada’s Department of Foreign Affairs, the UAE Embassy, and the Saudi Embassy). This significant event, attended by distinguished figures in policy-making, research, global development, and social affairs, emphasized the longstanding and impactful collaboration between Canada and the Aga Khan University (AKU) in advancing education, healthcare, and human development across the globe.

Professor Manoussi’s Participation in the Event

Among the prominent figures present at the event was Professor Manoussi, who attended at the invitation of the Board of the Aga Khan Ismaili Centre. He also officially visited the Aga Khan Centre in Ottawa, which was previously the site of the Canadian War Museum, and engaged in discussions with professors from the Aga Khan University.

A Symbol of Cooperation Between Canada and the Ismaili Community

The Aga Khan Foundation Canada, located at 330 Sussex Drive and leasing the property for just one dollar annually from the Canadian federal government, stands as a symbol of the enduring and strong relationship between Canada and the Ismaili community. The foundation plays a crucial role in global initiatives aimed at alleviating poverty and improving living standards, and in the past five years, it has received $235 million in grant funding from the Canadian government to implement its programs worldwide. The Aga Khan Ismaili Centre in Ottawa is one of the key projects of this collaboration, serving as a space for dialogue, cultural exchange, and the promotion of religious and cultural pluralism.

This center exemplifies the quiet diplomacy and global engagement fostered by the Aga Khan Foundation, disseminating cutting-edge knowledge and reflecting its humanitarian programs in Canada.

The Global Centre for Pluralism

Another significant Ismaili institution in Ottawa is the Global Centre for Pluralism, a charitable and independent organization founded by the Aga Khan. This center focuses on promoting a societal model where individuals from diverse social, religious, and ethnic backgrounds coexist while preserving their unique traditions and interests.

Canadian Government Support

On the occasion of the Day of Imamat, Canada’s Minister of Canadian Heritage, Ms. Kamal Khaira, issued a statement emphasizing the need to combat Islamophobia. She announced that the Canadian government would invest $7.5 million over the next six years (equivalent to $1.2 million annually) to support the Imamat, in addition to an additional $1.1 million previously allocated to continue the fight against Islamophobia.

The Aga Khan’s Wealth and Global Development Network

The Aga Khan’s net worth is estimated at $13.3 billion. Forbes ranks him among the world’s top 15 wealthiest individuals. He is the founder and president of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), one of the largest private development networks in the world.

Ismaili Community in Canada and Worldwide

The Ismaili community in Canada is estimated to number around 80,000, with most members originating from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and African countries like Kenya and Tanzania. Globally, the Ismaili population is estimated to be between 12 and 15 million.

The Memorandum of Understanding Between Canada and the Ismaili Imamat

In February 2014, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the Ismaili Imamat and the Government of Canada. This agreement grants full diplomatic respect to the Ismaili Imamat and facilitates the exchange of diplomatic representatives between Canada and the Ismaili Imamat.

Collaborative Projects for a Better Future

During the event, several joint projects between Canada and the Aga Khan University were presented, highlighting the positive and lasting impacts of these collaborations in improving living conditions around the world. These projects, particularly in regions of Africa and South Asia, aim to address global challenges such as poverty, social inequality, and lack of access to basic services. These initiatives have provided millions with access to healthcare services and strengthened education and empowerment for local communities.