WEB DESK: At Lady Margaret Hall, Oxford University, a portrait of Nobel Peace Prize laureate Malala Yousafzai has been unveiled, honoring her transformative efforts in advocating for girls’ education worldwide.
This occasion marked Malala as the second Pakistani woman to receive such recognition at the college, following in the footsteps of Benazir Bhutto. Painted by artist Isabella Watling, the portrait was unveiled during the annual Founders and Benefactors Dinner at Lady Margaret Hall—a significant event attended by nearly 200 individuals, including Oxford alumni, academics, and members of Malala’s family. Among her family present were her parents, Ziauddin and Toor Pekai Yousafzai, her brother Khushal Khan Yousafzai, and her husband, Asser Malik.
In her remarks, Malala expressed admiration for Benazir Bhutto, describing her as a beacon of inspiration for women globally. She underscored the importance of standing up for human rights, urging Muslim-majority nations to confront and challenge the Taliban’s ban on girls’ education in Afghanistan.
Malala highlighted the gravity of the Taliban’s actions, asserting that denying education to girls contradicts Islamic teachings. She also commended Afghan women and girls who continue seeking education through secret schools and online resources, vowing her steadfast support for their courage and determination.
During the event, Malala fondly reminisced about her own time as a student at Oxford University, where she earned a degree in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics in 2020. She recalled how her university experience shaped her sense of belonging, teaching her that home is not merely a physical place but resides in connections and moments that foster joy and comfort.
The unveiling of Malala’s portrait further underscores her profound influence both within Pakistan and at Oxford. Dr. Talha J Pirzada, co-founder of the Oxford Pakistan Programme, described her legacy as a symbol of progress for Pakistani women at the university. He regarded the portrait as a remarkable milestone for both Oxford and Pakistan. Similarly, Minahil Saqib, Outreach Lead for the same program, viewed Malala’s recognition as a lasting testament to her unwavering commitment to championing girls’ education globally.
Artist Isabella Watling expressed her deep appreciation for being entrusted with capturing Malala’s essence in the portrait. She spoke of the enormous honor and responsibility of immortalizing Malala’s powerful blend of strength and grace.
