Saadia Khan, illustrious alumna of Burn Hall College

As I reflect on my tenure as Principal of Army Burn Hall College for Girls from 1987 to 1993, I fondly remember Saadia Khan, an exceptionally brilliant student who left an indelible mark on our institution.

From Class 6 to Matric, Saadia consistently demonstrated academic excellence, extracurricular enthusiasm, and outstanding leadership skills. Her ever-cheerful demeanour, intellectual curiosity, and passion for achievement inspired her peers and teachers alike.

As an accomplished student, Saadia held various positions of responsibility, including Students’ Council Member, Secretary, and Head Girl. Her academic prowess earned her top positions in her class, and her exceptional oratory skills won her the Best Speaker award for two consecutive years.

Saadia’s literary talents were evident even at a young age when she was a student at Burn Hall Junior. Her poem, published in the Annual Magazine, showcased her creativity and imagination:

“The mountain so high

The birds in the sky

The tree so tall

The rain that falls

Look at the clouds

I feel so proud

The grass is green

It seems a dream.”

At just 9 years old, Saadia delivered an impressive speech on the 40th anniversary of Pakistan’s Independence, demonstrating her exceptional public speaking skills and thoughtfulness.

Throughout her 11-year tenure at Burn Hall, Saadia consistently excelled academically, securing the top position in the college in the Federal Board Matric Examination (1993).

The solid foundation laid during her formative years at Burn Hall and her family’s nurturing environment enabled Saadia to achieve distinction in her subsequent academic pursuits at Kinnaird College, GIK Institute, and NUST.

Saadia embodied the motto of her alma mater, ‘To what heights can I not rise?’ She accepted the challenge and lived up to it with remarkable achievements throughout her life.

As we remember Saadia, we pray that Almighty Allah grants her departed soul eternal peace and provides strength and fortitude to her family, friends, and all those who knew her. Rest in peace, dear Saadia. Your legacy lives on.

(Compiled from speech delivered by late Brig A R Siddique Principal Burn Hall College at condolence reference for Saadia held at NUST on 5 May 2002. Today is Saadia Khan 23rd death anniversary).