Renowned Pakistani Educationist Dr. Arfa Zehra Passes Away

Scholarly circles across Pakistan and beyond are mourning the loss of one of their most distinguished members. Dr Arfa Sayeda Zehra, aged 83, passed away in Lahore on Monday, leaving behind a formidable legacy in education, literature and social reform. 

Dr Zehra’s academic journey was marked by both depth and breadth. After studying at the Lahore College for Women University and Government College University, Lahore, she went on to earn her PhD in History from the University of Hawaiʻi. 

Her scholarly focus on Urdu literature and intellectual history positioned her as a leading voice in preserving Pakistan’s cultural heritage. 

Throughout her career, Dr Zehra held several prominent leadership roles in Pakistani academia. She served as Principal of both Lahore College for Women and Government College for Women (Gulberg), before being appointed Professor Emeritus at Forman Christian College in Lahore.

In addition to her academic posts, she held the UNESCO Chair in Cultural Heritage — a role that underscored her commitment to advocacy beyond the classroom. 

Beyond institutional roles, Dr Zehra was a passionate public intellectual and reformer. She served as Special Advisor to the Prime Minister on Education and National Cohesion, and chaired the National Commission on the Status of Women. Her bold statements on women’s rights, ethical governance and historical awareness helped steer public discourse toward equitable education and civic responsibility.

Her death has elicited a wave of national condolences. Asif Ali Zardari, former President of Pakistan, described her passing as an “irreparable loss” to the country’s academic and literary spheres, praising her lifelong dedication to knowledge and service. 

Meanwhile, the Federal Minister for Communications, Abdul Aleem Khan, expressed his deep sorrow and affirmed that Dr Zehra’s teachings will continue to inspire generations. 

Dr Zehra’s funeral arrangements were confirmed for Tuesday in Lahore, with her burial planned at the family graveyard in Cavalry Ground following a ceremony at Askari 5 mosque. 

As the nation bids farewell to this towering figure in Pakistani education, the impact of her work — in classrooms, institutions and society at large — remains enduring.

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