Karachi: The Department of Mass Communication at the Federal Urdu University, Abdul Haq Campus, organized the annual “Afzal Rehman Award for Courage of Expression and Freedom of Press” in a dignified ceremony. On this occasion, renowned writer and columnist Zahida Hina was honored with the “Lifetime Achievement Award 2025” in recognition of her outstanding literary and journalistic contributions.
A large number of prominent journalists, representatives of the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan, writers, and intellectuals attended the event. The program commenced with a dance performance on a poem by Afzal Rehman, gracefully presented by artist Sanober Nazir.
Dr. Jafar read an essay on Afzal Rehman, written by Shane Farooq, followed by a presentation showcasing glimpses of Afzal Rehman’s early and journalistic life. The speakers paid tribute to the sacrifices made by Afzal Rehman during the press restrictions imposed under Ayub Khan’s regime.
The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Riaz Sheikh, who contextualized the historical continuity of restrictions on freedom of expression in today’s era, analyzing liberalism, neo-liberalism, and the global impact of Donald Trump. He noted that while journalism was undoubtedly challenging in the past, it has become even more complex in today’s democratic times.
The event also featured another dance performance by Sanober Nazir, this time addressing the seven-kanal dispute over the Indus River. Meanwhile, Nazeer Mahmood referenced Afzal Rehman’s book “Sab Se Bari Jung” (“The Greatest War”), encouraging the audience to read it.
The award was presented to Zahida Hina by notable personalities including Asad Iqbal Butt of HRCP, prominent journalist Mazhar Abbas, and others. Mehnaz Rehman praised Zahida Hina’s courage, sharing: “She used to drive a car in her youth,” while her daughter added: “My mother even changed her car’s tire by herself.”
Head of the Mass Communication Department, Masroor Khanum, thanked all the guests, highlighting the department’s history and its accomplished alumni. She reminded the audience that Afzal Rehman himself was once a student of the same department.
The ceremony concluded with awards and cash prizes distributed among outstanding students of the department, followed by an oath-taking led by Dr. Tauseef Ahmed
