Celebrated Educationist Dr Arfa Sayeda Zehra Dies in Lahore
Renowned academic, poet, and human rights advocate Dr Arfa Sayeda Zehra passed away in Lahore on Monday at the age of 83, leaving behind a remarkable legacy in education, Urdu literature, and social activism.
Her niece, Ameena Kamal, confirmed her passing and stated that the funeral will take place at the family graveyard in Cavalry Ground, Lahore, with the exact time to be announced.
Tributes from Across Pakistan
President Asif Ali Zardari expressed deep sorrow over her death, calling it “an irreparable loss for Pakistan’s academic and literary world.”
In a message shared on social media, he noted that Dr Zehra devoted her entire life to education, research, and public service.
“Her scholarly contributions and tireless efforts for promoting the national language will always be remembered,” the President said.
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Decades of Service to Education
Dr Zehra was widely respected for her command of Urdu literature and linguistics.
She spent more than 50 years teaching, mentoring, and shaping academic institutions across Pakistan.
Key Roles in Academia
- Former Chairperson of the National Commission on the Status of Women (NCSW) in 2006
- Served as teacher and principal at Lahore College for Women University (LCWU)
- Taught at:
- Government College University (GCU) Lahore
- Lahore University of Management Sciences (LUMS)
- National College of Arts (NCA)
- School of Public Policy, Government of Pakistan
- Meritorious Professor of History at Forman Christian College, resigning last year due to health concerns
A Scholar with Global Academic Roots
Born and raised in Lahore, Dr Zehra completed her:
- BA (Honours) from LCWU
- MA in Urdu from GCU Lahore
- MA in Asian Studies and PhD in History from the University of Hawai’i at Mānoa, United States
Her work inspired generations of students, academics, and writers, making her one of Pakistan’s most respected literary personalities.
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