Who Is Arfa Karim? Age, Biography, and Wiki
Arfa Karim was born on February 2, 1995, in Faisalabad, Pakistan, and passed away on January 14, 2012. By 2025, she would have been 30 years old, if she were still alive. Arfa was a notable computer prodigy, gaining international recognition after becoming the youngest Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP) at the age of just nine. Her exceptional talent in computer science earned her accolades and opportunities to meet several influential figures in the tech world, including Bill Gates.
Her life story remains an inspiring narrative, highlighting the potential of youth and the power of education in transforming lives.
| Occupation | Computer Programmer |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | February 2, 1995 |
| Age | 16 Years |
| Birth Place | Faisalabad, Pakistan |
| Horoscope | Aquarius |
| Country | Pakistan |
| Date of death | 14 January, 2012 |
| Died Place | Combined Military Hospital Lahore, Pakistan |
Popularity
Arfa Karim's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
While specific body measurements were not widely reported during her lifetime, Arfa Karim was known for her petite stature. She stood approximately 5 feet tall and weighed around 50 kg. Her physical attributes were more reflective of her intelligence and passion for technology rather than conventional beauty standards.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Arfa grew up in a supportive family that encouraged her pursuit of knowledge. She was the daughter of Dr. Amna Karim and her father, Engineer Amjad Karim, who played significant roles in nurturing her talents. Due to her early passing at the age of 16, there are no public records or credible sources indicating any romantic relationships, including boyfriends or girlfriends.
On 9 January 2012, Bill Gates, chairman of Microsoft, contacted Randhawa's parents and directed her doctors to adopt "every kind of measure" for her treatment. Gates set up a special panel of international doctors who remained in contact with her local doctors through teleconference. The panel assisted in diagnosing and treating her illness.
Local doctors dismissed the option of moving Randhawa to another hospital due to her being on a ventilator and in critical condition. Members of her family have lauded Bill Gates for offering to bear her treatment expenses.
Net Worth and Salary
Given her young age at the time of her passing, Arfa Karim did not accumulate a substantial net worth, particularly by celebrity standards. However, it is estimated that her involvement in various tech initiatives and her role as a speaker at several high-profile events might have helped her family establish a modest financial standing. Her legacy continues to inspire many, and her contributions to technology are invaluable.
Career, Business, and Investments
Arfa Karim's career was rather brief but impactful. After achieving the MCP certification, she was invited to Microsoft's campus in the United States, where she garnered the attention of global tech leaders. Arfa also worked on several software projects and was an advocate for the promotion of technology education among youth in Pakistan.
In her honor, the Arfa Software Technology Park was inaugurated in Lahore, symbolizing her contributions to the tech industry in her home country. The establishment of this tech park signifies the ongoing impact Arfa has had on fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship in Pakistan.
After returning to Pakistan from a visit to the Microsoft headquarters, Randhawa gave numerous television and newspaper interviews. S. Somasegar, the vice president of Microsoft's Software Development Division, wrote about her in his blog.
On 2 August 2005, Arfa was presented the Fatimah Jinnah Gold Medal in the field of Science and Technology by the prime minister of Pakistan Shaukat Aziz at the 113th anniversary of Fatima Jinnah's birth. She also received the Salaam Pakistan Youth Award in August 2005 from the president of Pakistan.
Randhawa received the President's Award for Pride of Performance in 2005, a civil award usually granted to people who have shown excellence in their respective fields over a long period of time; she is the youngest recipient of this award.
She was made brand ambassador for Pakistan Telecommunication Company's 3G Wireless Broadband service, "EVO", in January 2010.
Social Network
Though social media was not as prevalent during Arfa's life, her legacy has been celebrated through various platforms. Posthumously, several pages and groups continue to honor her memory, and her achievements are discussed widely in technology circles. Platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram serve as mediums for her supporters and admirers to share her story, ensuring that her influence endures.
Education
Arfa Karim's educational journey was marked by her extraordinary talents. She attended the Lahore Grammar School, where her passion for computer science flourished. Her exceptional skills were evident from a young age, leading her to pursue more advanced studies in the field. Even though she passed away before completing a formal degree, her spirit of inquiry and dedication to learning remains an inspiration for countless students worldwide.
Arfa Abdul Karim Randhawa (, ; 2 February 1995 – 14 January 2012) was a Pakistani student and computer prodigy who became the youngest Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP) in 2004. She was submitted to the Guinness Book of World Records for her achievement.
Arfa kept the title until 2008 and went on to represent Pakistan on various international forums, including the TechEd Developers Conference. She received Pakistan's highest literary award, the Presidential Pride of Performance from General Pervez Musharraf in 2005.
A science park in Lahore, the Arfa Software Technology Park, is named in her honour. At the age of 10, Arfa was invited by Bill Gates to visit Microsoft's headquarters in the United States. She died in 2012, aged 16, from a cardiac arrest.
Conclusion
Arfa Karim's legacy as a computer prodigy continues to resonate, inspiring future generations to pursue their dreams irrespective of their age or background. As we look back at her remarkable life in 2025, it is clear that her contributions to technology and education will be remembered for years to come.
