Journey of Dr. Shahid Rasheed: From UET to Zaawiya
Dr. Shahid Rasheed’s journey is deeply intertwined with the establishment of Zaawiya School, an institution born out of a vision for transformative education.
In 1991, he was admitted to the University of Engineering and Technology (UET) Lahore, an institution that exposed him to diverse ideologies, intellectual currents, and thought-provoking debates. It was there that he engaged in meaningful discussions, encountered a wide range of perspectives, and deepened his love for reading and inquiry.
Although his formal field of study was engineering, his true passion lay elsewhere—in exploring profound questions about society, philosophy, and literature. UET became the place where he first realized that his interests extended beyond technical knowledge to understanding life, civilization, and the forces that shape the rise and fall of nations.
During this period, a vision began to take shape in his mind—an educational system that would go beyond rote learning, emphasizing character-building and intellectual growth. He believed that education should be more than just a means to secure jobs; it should cultivate thinkers, leaders, and individuals with a strong moral compass. This conviction led to the earliest ideas that would eventually evolve into Zaawiya School.
The Path to Zaawiya
Instead of pursuing a career in engineering, he entered the civil service through the CSS exam. However, he soon realized that the bureaucracy was not the space where he could fulfill his dream of transformative education. Recognizing the disconnect between his professional role and his true aspirations, he decided to shift his focus.
He turned to academia, dedicating himself to teaching and research to refine and develop his ideas. His pursuit of knowledge led him to complete a Master’s in Sociology from Oxford, followed by a PhD in Islamic Thought and Civilization. He also immersed himself in the study of classical languages to engage with civilizational ideas in their original context.
Zaawiya School—A Dream Realized
Zaawiya School stands as the tangible manifestation of this intellectual and spiritual journey. Walking away from a stable career in the civil service, he chose to establish an institution that would not only educate but also nurture minds and shape character. Zaawiya is more than just a school—it is a movement for change.
Those who believe in this mission and recognize the urgency of this cause are invited to join in this effort. Together, it is possible to lay the foundation for a better future.