Literary icons and colleagues remember the late academic and describe her death as an “irreplaceable loss”
Dr. Arfa Syeda Zehra, one of Pakistan’s most influential educators and human rights activists, passed away on Monday in Lahore at the age of 83.
Renowned for her extensive knowledge of Urdu and literature, Dr. Arfa was a renowned specialist in history and social issues in South Asia, and discussed complex issues with clarity.
She studied at Lahore College for Women and then at Government College University, where she earned her PhD. in History from the University of Hawaii.
Dr. Arfa served as Principal of Lahore College for Women and was also appointed Professor Emeritus at Forman Christian College.
Through bold statements and passionate advocacy for the promotion of women’s rights, historical awareness and ethical governance, Dr. Arfa also became a celebrity guest on talk shows and lectures.
Securing respect and admiration, she also secured positions at the government level: she served as Special Adviser to the Prime Minister on Education and National Cohesion and as Chairperson of the National Commission on the Status of Women.
Dr. Arfa even gained international recognition by holding a UNESCO Chair in Cultural Heritage. He used this position to fight for the protection and preservation of Pakistan’s intellectual and literary traditions.
The death of Dr. Arfa, a respected teacher, writer, scholar and reformer, marks the loss of a voice deeply respected for her contributions to women’s empowerment, educational reforms, language rights and equitable social development.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed grief over his death and paid tribute to his contributions to knowledge, teaching, research and particularly his promotion and development of the Urdu language.
Muhammad Ahmed Shah, president of the Arts Council, called Dr. Arfa’s death a great tragedy for Pakistan and said that she, like Zia Mohyeddin, are unique people who will never be forgotten.
Recalling how Dr. Arfa adopted a somewhat sarcastic tone when discussing complex topics, Shah noted that this especially resonated with the younger generation.
He announced that a session will be held during the 18th Aalmi Urdu Conference to commemorate the life, achievements, personality and legacy of Dr. Arfa.
Noorul Huda Shah, renowned playwright, poet and writer, also termed Dr Arfa’s death as an irreplaceable loss for the country.
Noorul Huda stated that she had known Dr. Arfa on a personal level for many years and recalled the way Dr. Arfa captivated the audience with her humor, simplicity and informal way of speaking.
Ameena Syed, founder of the Karachi Literature Festival, called Dr Arfa her ‘murshad’ (teacher or guide) and said she is heartbroken over the loss.
Appreciating the way Dr. Arfa conversed on spiritual, philosophical and social issues with grace and simplicity, Syed commented that Dr. Arfa has left a void that cannot be filled.
