They say when you lose one of your senses, the rest of your senses become stronger. In the case of Aziza Saeed, who is blind by birth, she’s replaced her vision with a sense of accomplishment. She believes that nothing is impossible if you have faith in yourself and are determined to do your very best. This incredible woman from Lahore has completed her PhD despite being legally blind.
Background
Born without sight, it was clear Aziza had a long and hard journey ahead specially since Pakistan is not an easy place for the differently abled. Her mother says “I was very worried when I found out she cannot see. I wondered how she would live and go on with her life.”
She says “Sometimes people discourage you and you feel depressed. But you need to have faith in your abilities and move on with your life.”
Aziza wasn’t one to lag behind due to the setback. She set goals which are considered tough for even those who have everything they need in life.
Her Education & Career
She completed her Masters and M.Phil from Government College University Lahore and started working as a lecturer at Lahore College for Women University. However, these qualifications were just stepping stones for her. She continued her studies alongside teaching, aiming to complete her doctorate.
Aizaza is also known for her voice and singing ability. Her college friends loved to hear her sing and even gave her a special title for it.
Aziza completed her thesis on “Immigrants and their Issues”. This week, she completed her PhD in Urdu from Government College University Lahore (GCU) and claimed the title of being the first blind student to get a PhD from GCU Lahore.
She continues to teach at Lahore College for Women University where she can have an even greater impact on the next generation of women. Her students find their teacher exemplary in the way she teaches and lives her life.
A Living Role Model
Living her life with assistance from a white stick, Aziza has high hopes for herself. “We all have obstacles in our lives that we struggle with,” she said. “Nothing is impossible and your path enlightens if you continue to have faith in yourself.”
Aziza says that if she had the ability to see, she would love to see her parents and the beauty of the world.
Her father says “All I did was drop her off and bring her from the university. All of her achievements are due to her own struggle and hard work.”
Vice Chancellor, GC University Lahore, says “She went though the same examination procedures like everyone else which is a huge thing. She is an inspiration for all disabled students and everyone like her.”
Aziza’s Request
Aziza Saeed asks people to support people with disabilities and encourages them to work for their dreams. She adds “If someone like us comes looking for a job, don’t look down on us. We can do everything that a job requires.”
Her determination and hard work are an example for us all and what she has achieved will be a role model for thousands of other blind girls in Pakistan. Aziza Saeed tells her fellow countrymen “Have faith and keep your hopes high, the path to success will unfold by itself.”
Mubarak Ho ! ALLAH Salamat Rakhe Aaameen
Bravo sister!