KARACHI (special crosspondent) – The Aga Khan University (AKU) has officially 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 across Pakistan. Developed in collaboration with AKU’s Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, the manual provides evidence-based guidance for pediatricians, family physicians, medical officers, residents, and other healthcare professionals. It is now available free of charge through the AKU Manual website and a dedicated mobile application.

Official Unveiling Ceremony

The manual was unveiled at a ceremony attended by the Federal Minister for National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination, Honorable Mr. Syed Mustafa Kamal, who served as the Chief Guest. “Strengthening Pakistan’s health care system requires practical, actionable, evidence-based solutions that support our health care professionals,” said Mr. Kamal. “The AKU Manual of Pediatrics is an important step towards improving the quality and consistency of child health care, and I commend Aga Khan University on this valuable contribution.” The event brought together leaders from government, academia, professional bodies, and the healthcare community, including representatives from the Pakistan Pediatric Association (PPA), Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC), Armed Forces Postgraduate Medical Institute (AFPGMI), and the Sindh Institute of Child Health and Neonatology (SICHN).

Content and Clinical Design

Developed by AKU’s Centre for Clinical Best Practices in partnership with the Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, the manual provides 88 evidence-based clinical practice guidelines across 14 pediatric subspecialties. It is specifically designed to provide bedside-ready, point-of-care guidance tailored to the local Pakistani context. The initiative is under the editorial leadership of Dr. Adil H. Haider, former Dean of the AKU Medical College. The launch event featured keynote addresses and a panel discussion on the critical role of locally developed guidelines in improving pediatric patient outcomes. AKU President Dr. Sulaiman Shahabuddin remarked, “AKU Manual of Pediatrics 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.” 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.” The launch comes at a time when major institutional efforts, such as the NDMA’s focus on national preparedness, are emphasizing the need for robust institutional frameworks. Additionally, ongoing efforts to improve national standards align with recent progress seen in sectors such as the Pakistan Stock Exchange and the efforts of bodies like the LCCI to advocate for systemic improvements. The manual is now accessible for digital download via the web and major mobile platforms.

Access Information

The manual is available free of charge through a mobile application and the University’s website. Web: https://guidelines.aku.edu/ iOS: https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/aku-guidelines/id6740030988 Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.akuh.guidelines.guidelines&hl=en