International Scholars Gather in Bonn to Honour Legacy of Professor Dr. Aslam Syed

BONN,Germany(Imran Saqib Ch) – The global academic community converged in Bonn this week for a solemn and heartfelt tribute to the late historian, philosopher, and anthropologist, Professor Dr. Aslam Syed. The condolence reference, organised by the Rhine-Indus Forum, drew delegations from Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands, all united in celebrating the life of a scholar described as a “bridge between civilisations.”

Dr. Syed, who lectured at universities in Pakistan, the United States, Britain, and Germany, was remembered as an inspirational teacher whose intellectual legacy continues to shine through his thousands of students worldwide. His sudden passing last year prompted an outpouring of grief, with admirers travelling from afar to attend the memorial, which featured a notably strong presence of women, underscoring his wide-reaching impact.

The ceremony commenced with a recitation from the Holy Qur’an, followed by the Azan. A series of scholarly papers were then presented, exploring Dr. Syed’s profound intellectual contributions and his extensive service to society. Speakers eulogised him as a vital link connecting the tapestry of human history, with one noting that his lectures made audiences “feel like creatures from the first century.”

His German colleagues also took to the podium, describing him as a uniquely gifted and beloved individual whose warmth matched his intellect.

Presiding over the forum was Kishwar Mustafa, Dr. Syed’s wife, who has now assumed leadership of the Rhine-Indus Forum, the organisation he founded. The event’s success was widely credited to her steadfast dedication and the emotional commitment of the couple’s daughter,Banafsheh Sakina Syed, alongside the diligent work of the entire forum team.

The memorial was attended by a host of special guests, including Dr. Syed’s German friends, the spiritual scholar and poet Tahira Rabab from Hamburg, and a prominent businessman and politician, Mr Manzoor Awan, from Berlin.

Mr Awan movingly recounted his first meeting with Dr. Syed twenty-four years ago at a seminar, describing a charismatic personality that drew him into a deep, lifelong friendship.

“What began as a connection deepened into a brotherhood,” Awan shared, recalling how Dr. Syed, with tears in his eyes, told him, “Manzoor, from today you are my brother.” Awan described this bond as “no less than a medal.”

Following the academic presentations, a documentary featuring video tributes from Dr. Syed’s students across the globe was screened. The event then transitioned to a poetry recital, featuring works by renowned poets from Germany and beyond, including Tahir Adim, Atif Tauqir, Mudbar Asan, Shazia Noreen, Komal Raja, Syed Razi Gilani, Imran Saqib from Belgium, and Adeel Shakir from the Netherlands.

The memorial concluded with a poignant musical programme, during which Dr. Syed’s friend, Peter Pannke, paid a final tribute by performing the professor’s favourite melodies,

https://londonpost.news/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Event_A.mp4?_=1

leaving a lasting echo of remembrance for a scholar who bridged cultures and generations.