University of Texas and Aga Khan University Establish Historic Partnership

AUSTIN – Gov. Rick Perry and His Highness the Aga Khan today participated in a display of unity and mutual respect at the State Capitol as the University of Texas at Austin and the Aga Khan University signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).

The document establishes a partnership to solve shared challenges and achieve mutual goals.  “We can achieve so much more when we work together, focusing on the common values that unite us instead of the differences that make us unique,” said Gov. Perry. “We must bridge the gap of understanding between East and West if we ever hope to experience a future of peace and prosperity.”

“Today marks a milestone in the partnership between two renowned institutions. I am delighted that the University of Texas and the Aga Khan University are committed to sharing the benefits of their research, teaching and service. In working together to develop and strengthen human resources and knowledge, AKU and UT will bring new capacity and capabilities to some of the world’s most vulnerable populations,” said the Aga Khan.

Gov. Perry has been a long-time supporter and friend of the Ismaili community as Texas is home to tens of thousands of Ismaili Muslims who contribute to the social, economic and cultural fabric of the state. The governor and the Aga Kahn opened the Ismaili Jamatkhana in Sugar Land in 2002; Gov. Perry has welcomed His Highness to Texas on two occasions, and met with him in France to share ideas and common philosophies.  To further inform Americans about the historical and cultural roots of Muslim societies, the University of Texas established the Muslim Histories and Cultures Project, training secondary school teachers in a curriculum on Muslim civilizations.

The MOU brings together the University of Texas and Aga Khan University in a collaborative effort to reach an additional 180 teachers in the Texas school system in the next three years.  The Aga Khan University is a higher education institution with faculties, institutes, centers and other teaching facilities in Asia, the Middle East, Europe and Africa. It is part of the Aga Khan Development Network established by His Highness.  The Aga Khan, is the 49th Imam of the Shia Imami Ismaili Muslims, the spiritual leader of 16 million Ismaili Muslims worldwide.

This is the year of the Golden Jubilee, marking His Highness’ 50th year as the Aga Khan.  His Highness is a world-renowned advocate for social and economic development in the underdeveloped world, a visionary leader who has established several campuses affiliated with the Aga Khan University recognizing the importance of improved educational opportunities. He is also a global humanitarian leader who works to marshal the resources and charity of men and women of faith to solve the challenges of hunger, hopelessness, ignorance and violence.