Former Government College Lahore principal left an enduring legacy in education, scientific research and public service
Lahore, 4 August 2026:Dr Nazir Ahmed, the distinguished scientist, educationist and former principal of Government College Lahore, passed away in Lahore on 4 August 1985. On his 41st death anniversary, his contributions to education, scientific research and the development of one of Pakistan’s leading academic institutions continue to be remembered.Born on 5 December 1904 at the residence of his maternal grandfather, Pir Alladad Shah, in Haveli Baroodkhana, Lahore, Dr Nazir Ahmed faced hardship from an early age. His father, who belonged to a respected family of saints and hereditary custodians in Bazidpur, a small town in the former princely state of Patiala, died while Dr Nazir was still young.
As the eldest of three brothers, Dr Nazir Ahmed assumed responsibility at an early age. One of his younger brothers, Dr Syed Ahmed, was pursuing a medical education but died before completing his studies. He was remembered as a close companion and supporter of Dr Nazir.His youngest brother, Zahoor Shah, became popularly known as “Ustad Moti Shah” because of his deep interest in music and his contribution to the field.Dr Nazir Ahmed’s mother, a graduate of a convent school, played a central role in his upbringing and early education. She encouraged him to pursue learning and inspired him to continue his studies despite the challenges faced by the family.His education was also supported by his maternal uncles, Dr Abdul Majeed Shah and Abdul Hameed Shah. Dr Abdul Majeed Shah served as a royal physician to King George V, while Abdul Hameed Shah was associated with the distribution of Johnson & Johnson products in pre-Partition India. Abdul Hameed Shah later also became Dr Nazir Ahmed’s father-in-law.After completing his early education, Dr Nazir Ahmed pursued higher studies at the University of Calcutta.
His exceptional academic performance earned him the highest position among students from the pre-Partition Punjab region and opened the way for advanced studies in Britain.He subsequently undertook doctoral and postdoctoral studies at Imperial College London and the University of Cambridge. His scientific research focused primarily on pests that damaged agricultural crops and on methods of preventing and controlling infestations.His work was particularly significant for cotton cultivation. As agriculture formed the backbone of the region’s economy, his research contributed to improving the protection, growth and harvesting of cotton crops.After completing his studies, Dr Nazir Ahmed returned to serve the education sector.
He was appointed principal of Government College Jhang, where he contributed to the institution’s academic development and administration.He later joined Government College Lahore as head of its Department of Zoology. In 1959, he was appointed principal of the college.It was during his tenure as principal of Government College Lahore that Dr Nazir Ahmed established the legacy for which he is most widely remembered. He promoted academic excellence, scientific inquiry, discipline and character-building among students.His leadership influenced generations of students and strengthened the academic standing of the institution. His commitment to education and research also inspired his family and descendants to value scholarship and public service.
Dr Nazir Ahmed’s life reflected perseverance, intellectual distinction and devotion to education. More than four decades after his death, he continues to be remembered as an eminent scholar and administrator who made lasting contributions to Government College Lahore and to scientific research in the subcontinent.
