ISLAMABAD: Renowned Pakistani educationist, humanitarian, poet and scholar, Dr. Arfa Sayeda Zehra, on Monday passed away in the eastern city of Lahore, with top officials, educationists and celebrities expressing sorrow over her demise.
Dr. Zehra earned her master’s degree in Urdu from Government College Lahore, followed by a PhD in History from the University of Hawaii. She remained the principal of Government College for Women in Lahore’s Gulberg from 1986 to 2009.
Hugely respected for her dedication to Urdu literature and education, Dr. Zehra served as a member of several educational, social and cultural boards and committees, where she actively promoted learning, dialogue and inclusion.
In a condolence message on her passing, Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari said the death of Dr. Arifa Sayeda Zehra is an “irreplaceable loss” for Pakistan’s intellectual and literary circles.
“Dr. Arifa Sayeda Zehra dedicated her life to knowledge, research and the service of humanity, setting a brilliant example,” he was quoted as saying by state media.
“Her academic contributions and efforts for the promotion of the national language will always be remembered.”
Minister for National Heritage and Culture Aurangzeb Khan Khichi said Dr. Zehra devoted her life to the pursuit of knowledge, research and service to humanity.
“The Ministry of National Heritage and Culture pays tribute to Dr. Arfa Sayeda Zehra’s lifelong services and will take steps to preserve and promote her scholarly and intellectual work,” he said, extending heartfelt sympathy to the bereaved family, students and academic community.
“Her legacy will continue to guide and inspire future scholars.”
Several Pakistani celebrities also expressed their sorrow over Dr. Zehra’s passing and paid a tribute to her services.
Sarmad Khoosat, a Pakistani actor and director, called it a “sad” day.
“Some people should not be allowed to leave us ever,” he said.
In a post on Instagram, actor and writer Mira Sethi described her death as “a huge loss“: “Urdu has lost one of its finest, sweetest (in terms of the mithaas of her words) ambassadors.”
