Artificial Intelligence, Health and Education Consultant (AKU)

IN-COUNTRY

Host Agency: Aga Khan University

Placement: Karachi, Pakistan

Duration: 12 months

About AKF Canada

Aga Khan Foundation Canada (AKFC) is a leading global development organization and registered charity working to tackle the root causes of poverty. Since 1980, we have helped create strong community institutions that support sustainable, locally-driven initiatives to improve the lives of millions of people in Africa and Asia. By combining local knowledge with global best practices, we strive to bring about transformative and long-lasting improvements to quality of life. In Canada, AKFC mobilizes funding and expertise and promotes awareness of global issues. In all of our work, advancing gender equality, inclusion, and pluralism are key objectives and approaches.

Working alongside the agencies of the Aga Khan Development Network and through partnerships with local communities, civil society, and business as well as governments and international aid agencies, we are building a future where we all thrive together.

About AKU

The Aga Khan University is an autonomous, international institution of distinction, primarily serving the developing world and Muslim societies in innovative and enduring ways.​

The ​Aga Khan University is committed to the development of human capacities through the discovery and dissemination of knowledge and application through service.

It seeks to prepare individuals for constructive and exemplary leadership roles, and shaping public and private policies, through strength in research and excellence in education, all dedicated to providing meaningful contributions to society.

As ​an international institution, in achieving its mission, the Aga Khan University operates on the core principles of Impact, Quality, Relevance, and​ Access.

Inspired by Islamic ethics, humanistic ideals, and the philosophy of the Aga Khan Development Network, the University is committed to building an environment that fosters intellectual freedom, distinction in scholarship, pluralism, compassion, and humanity’s collective responsibility for a sustainable physical, social, and cultural environment. ​​​

Summary of Position

As the Artificial Intelligence (AI), Health and Education Consultant, you will be responsible for leading and managing the development and implementation of AI initiatives in the fields of health and education. This position combines expertise in both AI technology and the specific domain knowledge of health and education. You will work closely with cross-functional teams to leverage AI technologies and data to drive innovation and improve outcomes in these sectors. This role requires a strong understanding of AI technologies, data analytics, and the ability to translate technical concepts into practical applications.

Responsibilities

• Strategy and Leadership
  • Develop and execute the strategic vision for AI in health and education sectors, aligned with AKU’s overall goals.
  • Recruit, lead and mentor a team of AI professionals, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning.
  • Establish partnerships with key stakeholders in the health and education sector to drive AI initiatives.
• AI Solution Development:
  • Identify opportunities and challenges in health and education domains that can be addressed through AI technologies.
  • Collaborate with internal teams and external partners to develop AI solutions, leveraging machine learning, natural language processing, computer vision, and other relevant AI techniques.
  • Ensure the development of scalable and ethical AI systems that comply with applicable regulations and privacy standards.
• Data Management and Analysis:
  • Oversee the collection, integration, and management of relevant data sources for AI projects, ensuring data quality and security.
  • Apply advanced data analytics techniques to extract insights, patterns, and trends from healthcare and education data, driving evidence-based decision-making.
• Collaboration and Communication:
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including researchers, engineers, data scientists, and domain experts, to develop and implement AI solutions.
  • Communicate the benefits, risks, and limitations of AI technologies to non-technical stakeholders, including healthcare professionals, educators, policymakers, and the general public.
• Evaluation and Continuous Improvement:
  • Define and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to evaluate the impact and effectiveness of AI initiatives in health and education.
  • Continuously assess and refine AI models and algorithms, incorporating feedback from end-users, domain experts, and stakeholders.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in AI technologies, healthcare practices, and education methodologies, ensuring the organization remains at the forefront of innovation.

Required Qualifications & Experience

• A master’s or doctoral degree in computer science, artificial intelligence, data science, or a related field. A background in health or education is highly desirable.
• Proven experience (3+ years) in leading AI initiatives, preferably in the health or education sectors.
• Strong knowledge of AI technologies, including machine learning, natural language processing, computer vision, and data analytics.
• Familiarity with healthcare and/or education data sources, standards, and regulations.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and manage teams, fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to convey complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.
• Strong problem-solving and critical thinking abilities, with a focus on practical and ethical applications of AI.
• Knowledge of emerging trends and developments in AI for health and education.

Additional Characteristics

The candidate should have strong communication and teamwork skills, as well as strong leadership and capacity development capability.

Language

English proficiency is required. Urdu and Swahili are a plus.

Please note that due to the nature of funding for this position, the placement is only open to Canadian citizens or permanent residents. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

AKFC is committed to advancing gender equality and inclusion through our programming and operations in Canada and overseas. AKFC requires all employees and consultants to review and abide by the AKFC Gender Equality Policy. 

AKFC recognizes the importance of safeguarding and is committed to ensuring it manages a wide range of risks such that beneficiaries, staff, other associates, and the organization are kept safe from harm. All employees and consultants must respect the AKF Code of Conduct and Safeguarding Policy. 

AKFC welcomes and encourages applications from people with disabilities. Accommodations are available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process.

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How to Apply:

Interested applicants are encouraged to apply by clicking the link below.

Deadline to apply: August 31, 2023 by 11:59pm EDT

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