A 22-year-old final-year student of Fatima Jinnah Medical College, Fareeha Afrahim, has died following an apparent suicide attempt at the university’s hostel in Lahore today.
Fareeha reportedly jumped from the third floor of her hostel in the evening and was immediately taken to Sir Ganga Ram Hospital.
She sustained severe head injuries and significant blood loss. Despite treatment in the intensive care unit (ICU), hospital officials have confirmed her death.
Reason behind incident
Fareeha was a fifth-year MBBS student preparing for her final-year exams.
Reports indicate that she had recently appeared for a surgery paper and had expressed concerns about her performance. Authorities say the reasons for her actions are still under investigation.
The incident took place around 7pm, and initial reports suggested that she may have slipped. However, police and university officials have indicated that it was a deliberate act.
Family, background
Fareeha was originally from Azad Kashmir and had moved to Lahore for her studies.
Her father is a government employee. She was residing in the university hostel at the time of the incident.
Her family has been informed, and arrangements are underway for them to travel to Lahore.
University officials response
The Vice-Chancellor of Fatima Jinnah Medical University has formed a five-member committee to investigate the circumstances of the incident. The committee is expected to submit its report within 24 hours.
By keeping in view the sad demise of Fareeha, the university has declared the closure of the campus from February 18, 2026, to February 24, 2026.
Punjab’s Health Minister, Khawaja Salman Rafique, also visited the hospital following the incident to oversee the situation.
Authorities have urged students and the public to await the committee’s findings before drawing conclusions.
They have emphasised that the matter is being treated as a case of suicide and that there is no evidence of foul play.
Mental health, student support
This tragedy highlights concerns about student stress and mental health, especially among medical students preparing for high-stakes examinations.
Universities and authorities are being encouraged to strengthen support systems to help students cope with academic pressures.
The investigation into Fareeha’s death is ongoing.
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