A pioneering educator and entrepreneur, Daniel Lazar, who established a significant educational legacy in the UAE, has died at the age of 84.
Daniel Lazar, a prominent Malayali engineer and educator, passed away on October 14 at the age of 84 in Thiruvananthapuram, India. His family confirmed his death to Gulf News, stating that he is survived by his son Lanson Lazar, the chairman of the Lazar Group, and daughter Lincy D’Souza, director of operations.
Early Life and Journey to the UAE
Born in Kerala, India, Lazar began his career as an electrical engineer with the Tata Group in Pune. In a bold move, he left his stable position in 1968 to pursue greater opportunities in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). On April 8, 1968, he embarked on a challenging ten-day voyage across the Arabian Sea, navigating in a small boat from Gujarat to the shores of Khor Fakkan in the UAE. This journey was described by The Lazar Group as one marked by uncertainty, hardship, and unwavering faith.
Founding the Lazar Group
Upon his arrival in the UAE, Lazar quickly became involved in the power sector, but his vision extended beyond professional success. In 1969, he founded The Lazar Group, which diversified into various sectors, including construction, facility management, and garments. Over the decades, the group has built a reputation for quality and service in the Northern Emirates, contributing to local economic development and employment generation.
Commitment to Education
Lazar’s dedication to education began alongside his wife, Sosamma Lazar, who started tutoring children from various backgrounds at their home in 1979. Recognizing the need for accessible English-language education, the couple established Little Flower Nursery in Ajman in 1985, followed by Ajman Intermediate English School in 1986, now known as The Royal Academy, Ajman. Today, the North Point Education Group operates three schools: The Royal Academy, The Bloomington Academy, and The Hope English School. These institutions have become integral parts of the community, providing quality education to thousands of expatriate families.
Legacy and Values
Although not a teacher by profession, Lazar was regarded as an educational visionary, emphasizing the importance of values and character in education. He often expressed that his greatest joy came from watching students grow into successful individuals. “Educating children gives me happiness. Watching them grow into successful individuals is the greatest reward of my life,” he was quoted as saying. This philosophy guided the institutions he built, which have served thousands of students and their families over the decades.
In honor of his late wife Sosamma, who passed away in 2012, the Lazar Group established the Sosamma Lazar 100% Scholarship Award for Academic Excellence. This award supports outstanding students in their pursuit of higher education, reflecting the couple’s commitment to nurturing future generations.
Responses and Tributes
Following Lazar’s passing, tributes poured in from across the educational community. Schools under the North Point Education Group organized condolence meetings where students and teachers gathered to honor his memory. Dr. Prema Muralidhar, principal of The Royal Academy, described Lazar as more than just a founder; he was a father figure whose contributions to the school would be long remembered. Veteran teacher Kripalatha reflected on three decades spent witnessing how his vision shaped generations of learners.
Asmaa Hossny, a member of the North Point Education family, commended Lazar for his diplomacy, integrity, and humanity, sharing her experience of being welcomed into the community. Similarly, Hussaina Begum Noor Sherrief, principal of The Bloomington Academy, praised his visionary leadership that created countless opportunities for children and families. Dr. Terry Burwell, principal of The Hope English School, remarked that Lazar’s legacy transcends institutional buildings, highlighting his impact on the broader community.
Employees from various sectors of the Lazar Group, including The Yellow Bus school transport network, characterized him as a compassionate leader who treated everyone with respect and care. Staff at Royal General Maintenance and Contracting LLC described him as a father figure who provided support during personal challenges, embodying kindness and encouragement.
The Broader Impact of His Work
Lazar’s entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to education not only fostered a thriving business in the UAE but also contributed to the social fabric of the expatriate community. His vision helped address the educational needs of a diverse population, many of whom sought quality schooling for their children in a foreign land. As the UAE continues to grow and attract talent from around the world, the foundations laid by Lazar and his wife have become even more critical in shaping the educational landscape.
Conclusion
Daniel Lazar’s journey from a secure career in India to becoming a cornerstone of education in the UAE exemplifies his commitment to service and community. His passing marks the end of an era for many in the education sector, but his legacy will undoubtedly live on through the institutions he founded and the lives he touched. The impact of his work will continue to resonate in the hearts of students and educators alike, serving as a testament to the power of vision and dedication in transforming lives.
