By Our Correspondent
LAHORE: Pakistan’s renowned literary figure, scholar, and educationist Dr Arfa Sayeda Zehra passed away on Monday, confirmed writer and academic Dr Asghar Nadeem Syed.
Dr Zehra was a towering name in Pakistan’s literary and academic circles — admired for her intellect, eloquence, and lifelong commitment to education and cultural understanding.
She completed her Master’s in Urdu from Government College Lahore and went on to earn a PhD in History from the East-West Centre, University of Hawaii. From 1986 to 2009, she served as the principal of Government College for Women, Gulberg, Lahore, where she inspired generations of students.
Fluent in seven languages, Dr Zehra wore many hats — serving on various educational, administrative, and cultural committees. She always stood up for dialogue, inclusion, and promotion of the national language.
Reacting to the sad news, President Asif Ali Zardari expressed deep sorrow over her demise, calling it “an irreparable loss to Pakistan’s academic and literary community.”
“Her scholarly services and tireless efforts for promoting Urdu and education will always be remembered,” the president said, praying for the departed soul and extending condolences to her family, students, and colleagues.
With her passing, Pakistan has lost not just an academic icon but also a voice of wisdom and compassion that helped shape countless young minds.
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