Dr. Arfa Sayeda Zehra - one of Pakistan’s most influential educationists and social reformers - passed away in Lahore at age 83 on Monday.
“Dr Arfa will be buried in her family graveyard, Cavalry Ground, Lahore, tomorrow, and her funeral will be held in the Askari 5 mosque at 1:30pm on Tuesday,” Dr Arfa's niece said.
Known for her contributions to education, women’s rights, and public discourse. Dr Arfa Sayeda Zehra earned her Ph.D. in History from the University of Hawaiʻi after studying at Lahore College for Women University and Government College University, Lahore.
She served as Principal of Lahore College for Women and Government College for Women, Gulberg, and later became a Professor Emeritus at Forman Christian College.
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Specializing in Urdu literature and intellectual history, Dr Zehra was a tireless advocate for education reforms, cultural heritage, and ethical public values. She also held a UNESCO Chair in Cultural Heritage, emphasizing the preservation of Pakistan’s intellectual and literary traditions.
Public service and advocacy
Dr Zehra served as Special Advisor to the Prime Minister on Education and National Cohesion and chaired the National Commission on the Status of Women. She was known for her courageous and bold statements, often encouraging public reflection on social justice, women’s rights, and historical awareness.
Her work extended beyond academia into social reform, promoting women’s empowerment and ethical governance. Through her public engagements, lectures, and writings, she inspired generations to value education and civic responsibility.
Condolences pour in
President Asif Ali Zardari expressed “profound grief” over the passing of renowned educationist and human rights activist Dr. Arfa Sayeda Zehra, according to a statement shared by the Pakistan Peoples Party on X.
The president described her demise as an “irreparable loss” to Pakistan’s academic and literary circles, noting that she devoted her life to knowledge, research, and the service of humanity. He said Dr. Arfa had “set a shining example,” adding that her scholarly contributions and efforts to promote the national language “will always be remembered.”
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also expressed deep sorrow over the demise of renowned literary figure, educationist, and intellectual.
Paying tribute to her lifelong contributions, the PM said Dr Arfa's services in the promotion of knowledge, teaching, research, and the Urdu language will always be remembered. He offered prayers for the forgiveness of the departed soul, the elevation of her ranks, and patience for the bereaved family.
In Lahore, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz also expressed profound grief and extended sympathy and condolences to Dr. Arfa Syeda Zehra’s family. She said that Dr. Arfa’s social and educational services have left an indelible mark and will continue to be remembered with respect.
In Karachi, Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah mourned the loss of Dr Arfa Syeda Zehra, describing her as a distinguished educationist and scholar who devoted her entire life to the promotion of education and to enlightening people about its true purpose.
“Dr. Arfa was a scholar who always emphasized character-building along with knowledge,” the Sindh Chief Minister said, adding, “For her, education that failed to pave the way for humanity was meaningless.”
Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan also expressed deep sorrow over her death, saying he was “deeply saddened” by her passing and that her work and teachings would continue to be remembered for years to come.
