ISLAMABAD, Dec 10 (APP):The education fraternity gathered on Wednesday at the Global School System in Sohan to pay tribute to Dr. Afzal Babar, former President of the Private Schools Network (PSN).
His sudden passing has left a profound void in the sector, with colleagues and institutions mourning the loss of a respected leader and tireless advocate for private education.
During the condolence reference, peers, colleagues, and prominent figures offered heartfelt tributes, remembering Dr. Babar as a man deeply committed not only to advancing education but also to ensuring equity and accessibility within it.
Waqas Kiyani, Member Registration of the Private Educational Institutions Regulatory Authority (PEIRA), underscored Dr. Babar’s pivotal role. “Dr. Afzal Babar was not merely an administrator; he was a visionary advocate who tirelessly worked to streamline policies for the betterment of the entire private education ecosystem. His counsel was invaluable,” Kiyani stated.
The mantle of leadership has now passed to Maqbool Hussain Dar, newly-appointed PSN President and Principal of the host school. In his emotional address, Dar vowed to uphold his predecessor’s legacy. “We have lost a guiding light. Dr. Babar’s life’s work was a testament to his belief that quality education must be accessible to all. Our path will be illuminated by the principles he championed,” he said.
Prominent social figure Jameel Awan, in a poignant address, connected Dr. Babar’s work to the broader social fabric. “Dr. Afzal Babar understood that education is the most powerful tool for social justice.
By championing the cause of low-cost schools, he wasn’t just building classrooms; he was building a more equitable society and breaking the cycles of poverty. His was a silent, sincere revolution from the ground up,” Awan remarked.
Arshad Chaudhry, Senior Vice President of PSN, highlighted Dr. Babar’s relentless advocacy. “He was the strongest voice for the small, budget-friendly schools of Islamabad, struggling to secure their rights and sustainability.”
The gathering also heard collective remembrances from other prominent figures, including Joint Secretary PSN Mrs. Saiqa Shaban, Executive Member PSN Ms. Obaida Azhar, Principal The Ilm College Ilyas Minhas, Principal of Ideal School System Sohan, Mrs. Maimoona Shafique Raja, President PSN Humak Zone Anjum Majeed Khawaja, and senior journalist Mirza Muhammad Arshad. They unanimously praised Dr. Babar’s integrity, his supportive nature towards fellow educators, and his enduring contributions to the network.
The event concluded with prayers for the departed soul, with a renewed commitment from the educational fraternity to carry forward his mission.