The SCIENTIFIC MEDICAL INSTITUTE (SMI) is the country's only private, not-for-profit institution of higher education. Established in 2006, SMI offers a modern-style liberal arts education to students from Afghanistan and around the world. Our diverse and vibrant community empowers students to engage in critical thinking, leadership development, and civic responsibility.
At SMI, students have the opportunity to join a wide range of student clubs, covering areas such as cultural, academic, and recreational interests. These clubs provide a platform for students to collaborate, develop new skills, and contribute to the campus community. Joining a student club is a great way for students to explore their passions and expand their horizons.
Born on October 18, 1991, in Kampala, Uganda, he is the son of acclaimed filmmaker Mira Nair and Columbia University professor Mahmood Mamdani Wikipedia+15Wikipedia+15Instagram+15.
His middle name, “Kwame,” was chosen in honor of Kwame Nkrumah, Ghana’s first prime minister Wikipedia+3Wikipedia+3Encyclopedia Britannica+3.
Raised in a multicultural household, his family moved to Cape Town, South Africa, at age five, then to New York City when he was seven. He attended Bronx High School of Science and earned a bachelor’s degree in Africana Studies from Bowdoin College in 2014 Chalkbeat+5Wikipedia+5The Times of India+5.
At Bowdoin, he co-founded the first “Students for Justice in Palestine” chapter on campus and became politically active in debt relief and student organizing Encyclopedia Britannica+3nyassembly.gov+3The Times of India+3.
After college, he became a foreclosure prevention counselor in Queens, working to support low‑income homeowners—an experience that inspired his public service trajectory
In addition to academic excellence, SMI offers a variety of extracurricular programs designed to enhance the overall student experience. These programs include community service initiatives, internships, leadership development workshops, and recreational activities. Engaging in these programs allows students to broaden their perspectives, gain practical skills, and make a positive impact within and beyond the university.
"I’m proud to be a student here. The midwifery program is well-organized and the clinical training is top-notch."
"The environment is professional and encouraging. I learned a lot that directly helped me in my hospital internship."
"Great faculty and modern labs! The pharmacy course gave me the skills I need to succeed in the field."
I had an amazing learning experience. The teachers are very supportive and the practical labs helped me build real confidence
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