KARACHI: The Aga Khan University (AKU) Manual of Paediatrics – a free, locally developed clinical resource created by clinicians, for clinicians – was launched on Thursday to support the diagnosis and management of common childhood conditions in the country.

Developed by AKU’s Centre for Clinical Best Practices with the Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, the manual provides evidence-based guidance for paediatricians, family physicians, medical officers, residents, and other healthcare professionals.

The manual, available free through the AKU manual website and mobile application, provides 88 evidence-based clinical practice guidelines across 14 paediatric subspecialties. Its Editor-in-Chief is Dr Adil H. Haider, former dean of AKU Medical College.

Speaking at the event organised on the campus, federal minister for national health services, regulations and coordination Syed Mustafa Kamal, the chief guest, emphasised the need for practical, actionable and evidence-based solutions to strengthen the healthcare system.

“The AKU manual is an important step towards improving the quality and consistency of child healthcare, and I commend the Aga Khan University on this valuable contribution,” he said.

In her remarks, Prof Fyezah Jehan, chair of the Department of Paediatrics and Child Health at AKU, said, “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.”

AKU President Dr Sulaiman Shahabuddin said that the manual reflected 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,” he noted.

Published in Dawn, August 7th, 2026