Commemoration of the Late Professor Mohammad Younis Toghyan Sakai in Calgary, Canada

On Sunday, October 19, 2025, the Hazara community of Alberta, Canada, held a memorial ceremony in Calgary to honor the late Professor Mohammad Younis Toghyan Sakai. The event was attended by prominent figures from academic, cultural, political, and social circles, as well as admirers of the late professor.

The ceremony began with the recitation of verses from the Holy Quran and prayers for the departed soul, followed by a biography of Professor Sakai presented by Ms. Fawzia Khadri, highlighting his academic, research, teaching contributions, and lifelong struggles. His daughter, Najmeh Toghyan Sakai, spoke online, remembering her father as a “teacher of ethics” and emphasizing the lessons she learned from him about life and fighting discrimination.

One of his students, Arif Yasa, shared personal memories, noting the profound influence of Professor Sakai on his life and describing him as a guiding figure for the Hazara community in education and enlightenment. Additionally, Mr. Saei recited one of Professor Sakai’s poems, reflecting the pain and struggles of the Hazara people. Dr. Awaz Ali Saadat also reviewed his scientific and cultural contributions, describing him as a pillar of contemporary Afghan history and literature and an advocate for identity and social awareness.

The ceremony concluded with remarks from the President of the Hazara Community of Alberta, who highlighted Professor Sakai’s social and political engagement, his fight against discrimination, and his respect for Afghanistan’s diverse identities. Professor Sakai passed away on October 3, 2025, in California, USA.

May his soul rest in peace and his memory remain cherished.