Professor Karim Damji has been appointed as the Dean of the Medical College at AKU, Pakistan, starting August 11, 2025. A respected clinician and leader with decades of experience, Dr. Damji is the inaugural Laila Endowed Chair in Ophthalmology at AKU and has volunteered across Pakistan, East Africa, and Afghanistan.

Dr. Damji expressed his honour in serving AKU in this new role, aiming to advance research and innovate in medical education. He completed his medical degree and research fellowship at the University of British Columbia, ophthalmology residency at the University of Ottawa, and has an Executive MBA from Queen’s University.

Previously, he was a clinician scientist and glaucoma specialist at the University of Ottawa and a Professor for over 10 years at the University of Alberta. As the Chair of Ophthalmology there, he is now Professor Emeritus.

AKU President Sulaiman Shahabuddin emphasised that Dr. Damji’s leadership is crucial for advancing the college’s academic mission. A global speaker and past president of the Canadian Glaucoma Society, Dr. Damji is a pioneer in the field of selective laser trabeculoplasty. His current research focuses on stem cell therapy for glaucoma and improving access to eye care in underserved communities, with over 180 peer-reviewed publications to his name.