LAHORE: Dr Arfa Sayeda Zehra, a highly respected educationist, historian, and advocate for women’s rights in Pakistan, passed away on Sunday. She was widely admired for her lifelong dedication to education, intellectual discourse, and social reform.
Dr. Zehra earned her Ph.D. in History from the University of Hawaiʻi after completing her studies at Lahore College for Women University and Government College University, Lahore.
She served as Principal at Lahore College for Women and Government College for Women, Gulberg, before joining Forman Christian College University as Professor Emeritus.
A distinguished scholar of Urdu literature and intellectual history, she devoted her career to enhancing Pakistan’s academic standards and cultural awareness. She held the UNESCO Chair in Cultural Heritage, championing the preservation of Pakistan’s literary and philosophical legacy.
In recognition of her vision and leadership, Dr. Zehra was appointed Special Advisor to the Prime Minister on Education and National Cohesion and also served as Chairperson of the National Commission on the Status of Women.
Known for her eloquence and fearless advocacy, Dr. Zehra consistently spoke on women’s empowerment, social justice, and ethical governance. Her lectures and writings inspired generations to view education as a path to personal growth and national development.