KARACHI: The Aga Khan University (AKU) has launched the AKU Manual of Pediatrics, a free, locally developed clinical resource created “by clinicians, for clinicians” to support the diagnosis and management of common childhood conditions in Pakistan.
Developed in collaboration with AKU’s Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, the manual provides evidence-based guidance for paediatricians, family physicians, medical officers, residents, and other healthcare professionals and is available free through the AKU Manual website and mobile application.
The manual was unveiled at a ceremony attended by the Federal Minister for National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination, Honourable Syed Mustafa Kamal, as Chief Guest.
“Strengthening Pakistan’s healthcare system requires practical, actionable, evidence-based solutions that support our healthcare professionals,” said Kamal. “The AKU Manual of Paediatrics is an important step towards improving the quality and consistency of child healthcare, and I commend Aga Khan University on this valuable contribution.”
The ceremony brought together leaders from government, academia, professional bodies, and the healthcare community, including representatives of the Pakistan Paediatric Association (PPA), Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC), Armed Forces Postgraduate Medical Institute (AFPGMI), Sindh Institute of Child Health and Neonatology (SICHN), together with pediatric leaders and healthcare professionals.
Developed by AKU’s Centre for Clinical Best Practices with the Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, the manual provides 88 evidence-based clinical practice guidelines across 14 pediatric subspecialties. It is designed for paediatricians, family physicians, residents, medical officers, and other healthcare professionals, offering bedside-ready, point-of-care guidance tailored to Pakistan’s context.
Its Editor-in-Chief is Dr Adil H. Haider, former Dean of AKU Medical College.
The programme featured keynote addresses and a panel discussion on the role of locally developed guidelines in improving paediatric care and outcomes, before the official digital launch.
“AKU Manual of Paediatrics reflects a deeper purpose: to place reliable knowledge in the hands of those who care for children. When clinical decisions are guided by evidence, informed by global science, and rooted in local realities, we move closer to a health system in which every child has a fairer chance at life and health.” said AKU President Dr Sulaiman Shahabuddin.
Prof. Dr. Fyezah Jehan, Chair of the Department of Paediatrics and Child Health at AKU, added: “Science is universal, but practice is always local. When evidence generated elsewhere needs to be applied in Pakistan, it needs to be understood, adapted and trusted. Our manual is a step towards bridging that gap.”
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026
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