In our pursuit of education, there are certain individuals who leave an indelible mark on our lives. These are the teachers who go beyond imparting knowledge; they become mentors, inspirations, and guides who shape our futures. Today, I want to share the story of Dr. Professor Zahid Asghar, Director of the School of Economics and former Registrar at Quaid-i-Azam University, who played a transformative role in my journey – a catalyst who instilled a love for learning that will forever endure.
In every class, I found myself brimming with curiosity and eagerness to ask countless questions. Whenever I had a question, Dr. Asghar, with his patient demeanor, not only provided answers but also encouraged me to delve deeper and explore different perspectives. He possesses a genuine love for learning and an eagerness to pass on his knowledge to others. Amidst the mosaic of classes I attended, one course stood out like a vibrant brushstroke on a canvas – Data Visualization using R. In the classroom, his eyes would light up as he introduced new concepts and discussed his latest readings and profound insights into the ever-evolving world of academia. Instead of adhering to traditional teaching methods and expecting passive absorption, he had a unique ability to ignite the flames of curiosity and fostered an interactive environment where students could engage in thought-provoking discussions. This fostered an environment where diverse opinions were respected, expanding our horizons – a skill that would prove invaluable beyond the classroom.
Learning for him means a lifelong pursuit that had no end. His dedication to personal growth serves as a constant reminder that knowledge knows no bounds. He taught us the importance of embracing a growth mindset and the boundless possibilities that come with it. The secret ingredient, actually an advice that Dr. Asghar shared was the importance of spending each day above the “productive level.” It was a simple yet profound mantra that resonated deeply. It wasn’t merely about upholding the status quo; it was about exceeding it, pushing ourselves to new heights of productivity and excellence each day. However, Dr. Asghar’s most significant contribution lay in his emphasis on market-oriented skills. In the ever-changing landscape of academia, his vision of empowering students with practical, real-world skills proves invaluable.
His office door remains open with a warm embrace for intellectual simulations and oft-discussed career-burning questions. His wisdom flowed like a river in spring, but tea on the menu? No, dear reader, you won’t find a cup of tea in sight, no snack lurking nearby. It’s as if the teapot has declared a permanent vacation, leaving behind parched throats and the echoes of its absence. He hopes his wife discovers this delightful solution by buying him a coffee machine. Then there was that time when I mustered the courage to ask my professor for a book from his precious collection as a gift. The hesitation hung in the air as if I’d asked for the Crown Jewels. I didn’t get the book from him.
Reflecting on my journey, I owe a great debt of gratitude to Dr. Asghar who guided me toward a path of continuous growth. Even after completing my studies, my connection with the professor has remained intact. Whenever I have the opportunity to meet him, I find myself engaged in deep conversations and he continues to inspire me with his voracious appetite for learning. When people ask about my journey and the secret behind my success, I proudly say, “My Professor.” With each mention of his name, I hope to perpetuate his memory, ensuring that his transformative impact is remembered and celebrated for generations to come. As we continue to learn, grow, and flourish under his tutelage, “The Professor” will remain a living testament to the profound impact of an exceptional educator.
