A Journey of Mission: From Allama I.I. Kazi to the Late Mazhar-ul-Haq Siddiqui – A Tribute to Legends

The University of Sindh, Jamshoro, hosted a solemn and prestigious commemorative event titled “A Journey of Mission: From Allama I.I. Kazi to the Late Mazhar-ul-Haq Siddiqui – A Tribute to Legends” at the Senate Hall to honour the remarkable life and legacy of its former Vice-Chancellor, Mazhar-ul-Haq Siddiqui.

The event was presided over by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Dr. Fateh Muhammad Marri, while Ms. Sultana Siddiqui, President and CEO of Hum Network Limited, graced the occasion as Chief Guest. A large number of distinguished scholars, former bureaucrats, faculty members, civil society representatives, students, and members of the media attended the event.

Mazhar-ul-Haq Siddiqui, who served as Vice-Chancellor for an unprecedented 13 years across three tenures, was remembered as a transformative leader who reshaped the institutional, academic, and administrative foundations of the University. Speakers described him as an architect of merit, discipline, and institutional integrity, whose tenure marked a defining era in the University’s history after Allama I.I. Kazi.

During his address, the Vice-Chancellor expressed gratitude to the family, friends, and colleagues of the late Siddiqui for their presence and reflections. He described him as a role model who set new benchmarks for academic leadership. He announced that the University would soon revitalise its Translation Bureau and undertake the translation of Siddiqui’s book into English and Urdu. He further shared that efforts are underway, in collaboration with his son, to establish an institution in his name to carry forward his legacy.

Highlighting his contributions, speakers noted that he revolutionised faculty recruitment through transparent, merit-based systems, introduced standardised admission processes, and strengthened academic credibility. His visionary leadership led to the expansion of scientific disciplines, establishment of new departments, and major infrastructure development through Higher Education Commission projects. The creation of the Quality Enhancement Cell (QEC) further ensured alignment with international academic standards.

He was also widely recognised as a champion of gender equality and inclusivity, creating a safe and enabling environment for female students and faculty through progressive policies and dedicated facilities.

In her keynote address, Ms. Sultana Siddiqui paid a heartfelt tribute, recalling him as a caring brother and a strong advocate of women’s rights. She credited his support as instrumental in her success and highlighted his commitment to education through the Fakhether Imdad Foundation, which provided free education to children in rural areas, transforming countless lives.

Commissioner Hyderabad, Mr. Fayaz Abbasi, emphasised the role of education in shaping the nation’s future and stressed the importance of character building and inclusivity in educational institutions, particularly ensuring safe environments for female students.

Dr. Fahmida Hussain described Siddiqui as a humble and principled individual devoted to education, while Ms. Mehtab Akbar Rashdi praised his wisdom, character, and alignment with the vision of Allama I.I. Kazi. Other speakers, including Mr. Mustafa Suhag, Dr. A.Q. Mughal, Dr. Qadeer Rajput, Dr. Siddique Kalhoro, and Dr. Khalil Khunbhati, highlighted his administrative strength, compassion, accessibility, and commitment to student welfare and faculty development. Special tribute was also paid to his wife, Apa Akhtar Jabeen, for her unwavering support.

Mr. Jahangir Siddiqui fondly remembered his brother as a man of exceptional courage and unwavering principles. He stated that Mazhar-ul-Haq Siddiqui never compromised on merit and had the integrity to refuse compliance with any directives he believed were unjust or contrary to fairness. He also shared a personal reflection, describing him as a devoted and caring son who remained closely attached to his mother, who always preferred to stay with him.

Mr. Zuhair Siddiqui shared that they inherited the values of humility, courage, and honesty from their father, who guided them at every step of life. He noted that Mazhar-ul-Haq Siddiqui was deeply concerned about rural development and firmly believed that Pakistan holds immense potential in its rural areas, and that meaningful investment in rural development is essential for national progress.

He further highlighted that his father was a strong advocate of girls’ education and believed that no nation can progress without empowering women. In continuation of his vision, he announced that the family is planning to establish a Human Resource and Skill Development Center at the University of Sindh and is actively working to carry forward his mission. His elder daughter, Ms. Nazia Inam, also shared heartfelt reflections, describing him as a deeply loving and compassionate personality.

The ceremony commenced with a welcome address by Prof. Arfana Mallah, while the formal citation was read by Prof. Dr. Misbah Bibi, Pro Vice-Chancellor, Thatta Campus. The vote of thanks was presented by Mr. Sajid Memon.

As part of the tribute, a documentary produced by University faculty members was screened, and an exhibition of rare photographs from Siddiqui’s tenure was curated by Dr. Saeed Mangi, Director, Institute of Art and Design.

The event concluded with a renewed commitment by the University of Sindh to uphold and carry forward the vision, values, and mission of Mazhar-ul-Haq Siddiqui, ensuring that his legacy continues to inspire generations to come.