LAHORE: Former vice-principal of the Government College (University) Prof RA Khan died here on Saturday. He was 86.

He was laid to rest in a graveyard near his residence (677-A DHA, Phase 5). A large number of people, including students and teachers, attended his funeral.

Prof Khan migrated from Mumbai to Pakistan in 1947 and studied in the GC for six years and earned his post-graduation degree in English literature. He joined the GC as an English lecturer in 1958. He taught for 34 years in the GC, served as vice-principal for seven years and retired (as VP) in 1991. Afterwards he joined The News.

Prof Khan was taught by some of the best teachers of the time like professors Ahmad Shah Bokhari (Patras Bokhari), Fazal Ahmed Awan, Syed Ghulam Raza, Abdul Hamid, Fayyazuddin, Ashfaq Ali Khan and K.K Aziz.

A well-dressed figure, he would politely guide students, whether or not they were in his class, and taught them manners. Always ready to help students, even in their personal matters. Prof Khan patronised many student societies. He was an ideal English literature teacher, had an excellent command over Shakespeare works.

Former premier Yousuf Raza Gilani was also his student. Mr Gilani had invited Prof Khan at his residence when he was prime minister in 2011.

“The character certificate Prof Khan gave me in his own hand-writing is my precious asset,” Mr Gilani earlier said.

GCU Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr Hasan Amir Shah expressed condolences on the demise of great Ravian professor and paid him glowing tributes for his services for the Government College (University) and the education sector.

“Prof Khan was a beacon of light for many generations of the Ravians. He injected the spirit of humanism, compassion and tolerance in his students. He inspired his colleagues and students through character, knowledge and literary sensibility.

He contributed several essays and articles to magazines, journals and newspapers which will be a source of light for all future generations to come,” the VC said.

Old Ravians Union Honorary Secretary Dr Khalid Manzoor Butt said the union would soon organise a condolence reference to pay tribute to the role-model teacher and Ravian.

He said Prof RA Khan’s association with his alma mater remained perpetually strong even after his retirement. “Prof Khan had regularly attended the university convocation, sports, annual plays and debates. He had the rare distinction of having attended the 100th, 125th and 150th Founders’ Day celebrations of the GC,” he said.

Published in Dawn, July 31st, 2016