Sir Syed University Reception Held to Honor Dr. Shaheer Khan
Sir Syed University Reception was held in Karachi to honor distinguished American scientist and senior scholar Dr. Shaheer Khan, recognizing his lifelong contributions to education, research, and international academic cooperation.
The grand ceremony was organized by Sir Syed University of Engineering and Technology on December 12, 2026, and was attended by senior academics, university leadership, alumni, and prominent figures from educational and social sectors.
Dr. Shaheer Khan Highlights Legacy of Sir Syed Ahmed Khan
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Shaheer Khan drew a powerful historical parallel, stating that while Abraham Lincoln was fighting to abolish slavery in the United States, Sir Syed Ahmed Khan was leading the Aligarh Movement to liberate Muslims of the subcontinent from intellectual and economic backwardness.
He emphasized that the Aligarh Movement was not only a struggle for scientific education but also a transformative force that awakened political consciousness and social reform across the region.
Sir Syed University Reception Highlights Global Education Support
During the Sir Syed University Reception, Dr. Shaheer Khan shared that he is actively facilitating higher education opportunities for deserving students in leading universities across the United States and Europe. He explained that financial support is transferred directly to universities, ensuring transparency, continuity, and equal access to education.
He stressed the need to establish more educational organizations and alumni-driven platforms to support talented students globally, offering his full guidance and mentorship for such initiatives.
Role of Alumni and Digital Outreach
Dr. Shaheer Khan also revealed that he manages a global social media group with over 38,000 members worldwide, aimed at promoting the intellectual legacy of Sir Syed Ahmed Khan and Aligarh Muslim University. Additionally, several educational and heritage-focused websites have been launched to preserve Aligarh traditions.
Tribute to Engineer Zakir Ali Khan
Paying tribute to the late Engineer Muhammad Zakir Ali Khan, Dr. Shaheer Khan acknowledged his pivotal role in preserving Aligarh culture. He praised the publication of Zakir Ali Khan’s renowned book Traditions of Aligarh in Hindi, appreciating the Rekhta Foundation for bridging linguistic and cultural gaps.
University Leadership Emphasizes Modern Education
Speaking at the Sir Syed University Reception, Chancellor Muhammad Akbar Ali Khan stated that rapid technological advancement requires continuous curriculum modernization. He emphasized the importance of alumni networks in providing modern skills and practical exposure to students.
He also highlighted that Sir Syed University operates without government grants, relying entirely on private funding and alumni support for infrastructure and development.
Academic Recognition and Cultural Legacy
Chairperson of Zakir Ali Khan Foundation, Iram Akbar Ali Khan, noted that Engineer Zakir Ali Khan received the first Sir Syed Ahmed Khan International Award for Literature from Aligarh Muslim University—an honor recognizing his academic and literary excellence.
Distinguished Attendance
The ceremony was conducted by Tariq Sabzwari and attended by Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Afzal Haq, Registrar Commodore (R) Syed Sarfraz Ali, along with senior faculty members, scholars, engineers, and notable alumni of Sir Syed University.
