Prominent Scholar’s Passing Mourned Across Pakistan
Lahore — Dr. Arfa Sayeda Zehra, one of Pakistan’s most respected literary and academic figures, passed away in Lahore. Her death was confirmed by noted playwright, author, and poet Asghar Nadeem Syed, who expressed profound grief and condolences. He stated that funeral details will be announced later.
Dr. Zehra’s passing marks the end of an era for Pakistan’s intellectual and cultural community. She was widely admired for her eloquent public speaking, deep understanding of Urdu literature, and unwavering advocacy for education and women’s empowerment.
A Distinguished Academic Career
Dr. Arfa Sayeda Zehra earned her Master’s degree in Urdu from Government College Lahore, one of Pakistan’s premier educational institutions. She later completed her PhD in History from the East–West Center, University of Hawai‘i, in the United States.
Returning to Pakistan, she joined academia and served as Principal of Government College for Women, Gulberg, Lahore, from 1986 to 2009. Over her long career, she inspired generations of students and educators with her dedication to learning and social progress.
A Multilingual Intellectual and Cultural Advocate
Fluent in seven languages, Dr. Zehra was deeply involved in Pakistan’s educational, administrative, and cultural institutions. She contributed to numerous national committees focusing on education reform, cultural heritage, and social development.
Known for her powerful speeches and televised lectures, she often emphasized the importance of tolerance, civic responsibility, and respect for linguistic diversity. Her voice remained a beacon of intellectual clarity and compassion in Pakistan’s public discourse.
Legacy and Influence
Dr. Arfa Sayeda Zehra’s contributions extended beyond academia. She was a passionate advocate for women’s rights and interfaith harmony, and her writings continue to influence Pakistan’s cultural thought.
Her passing has left a profound void in the country’s literary and educational circles. Tributes continue to pour in from colleagues, former students, and admirers who remember her as a scholar, mentor, and reformer who dedicated her life to knowledge and humanity.
