Renowned Pakistani educationist Dr Arfa Sayeda Zehra passed away in Lahore at the age of 83, leaving behind a rich legacy of academic excellence, cultural preservation, and advocacy for women’s education.
A Lifetime of Service to Education
Dr Arfa Sayeda Zehra was one of Pakistan’s most respected scholars and educationists. She devoted her life to promoting learning, ethics, and the empowerment of women through education. Born in Lahore, she earned her early degrees from Lahore College for Women University and Government College University (GCU), Lahore, later pursuing her PhD in History from the University of Hawaiʻi.
Throughout her distinguished career, Dr Zehra served in several prominent educational roles — as Principal of Lahore College for Women, Principal of Government College for Women, Gulberg, and Professor Emeritus at Forman Christian College.
Advocate of Urdu, Ethics, and Cultural Heritage
Dr Zehra was widely admired for her eloquence, intellect, and deep love for Urdu literature and Pakistani culture. She believed that education was not only about knowledge but also about building character and national identity.
Her scholarly work often focused on moral education, social ethics, and language preservation. As an advocate for Urdu, she emphasised the language’s role in fostering unity and cultural awareness across Pakistan.
“Education must create responsible citizens, not just degree holders,” she once remarked during a public lecture.
National Contributions and Public Service
In addition to her academic roles, Dr Arfa Sayeda Zehra made significant contributions to public policy and national development.
She served as:
- Special Advisor to the Prime Minister on Education and National Cohesion
- Chairperson of the National Commission on the Status of Women (NCSW)
In these roles, she worked tirelessly for women’s empowerment, ethical education reforms, and social inclusion — earning respect from policymakers, educators, and students alike.
Tributes from Leaders and Academics
Following her passing, tributes poured in from political leaders, educators, and admirers across Pakistan.
President Asif Ali Zardari called her demise “an irreparable loss to Pakistan’s academic and literary circles.”
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif praised her for “a lifelong devotion to knowledge, teaching, and Urdu advocacy.”
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz stated,
“Dr Arfa Sayeda Zehra’s social and educational services will always be remembered with deep respect.”
Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah also remarked,
“She was a scholar who always emphasised character-building along with education.”
Final Journey and Legacy
Dr Arfa Sayeda Zehra’s funeral prayers were offered at the Askari 5 mosque in Lahore, and she was laid to rest in her family graveyard in Cavalry Ground.
Her legacy continues to inspire students, educators, and intellectuals who value education not just as a profession but as a mission to transform society.
“Her words, teachings, and vision for an ethical Pakistan will continue to guide generations to come.”
