Legends Retire, Legacies Remain: Celebrating Two Iconic Careers
Akingam, November 22: A grand retirement farewell was organized at Govt. Higher
Secondary School (HSS) Akingam to honor two remarkable educators, Mr. Mohd
Ishaq Lone, Physical Education Master, and Mtr.
Shabnum Amin, Teacher, as they gracefully concluded their professional
journeys. The event, filled with emotions and heartfelt tributes, celebrated
their dedication, achievements, and the indelible legacy they left behind.
The event was presided over by the
Head of the Institution, Mr. Mohd Abass Rather, as the chief guest, with
esteemed former lecturers Mr. M.A. Makmoor and Mtr. Afshana Jee
as special guests. Anchors Mr. Mujeeb ur Rehman and Mr. Wani Sajad
flawlessly set the tone with their eloquence, guiding the program with energy,
dignity, and an emotional touch.
The program commenced with a
spiritually uplifting recitation of the Holy Quran by Hadiya Jan,
a 9th-grade student, followed by a melodious Naat-e-Rasool (PBUH)
rendered by Sabhat Fida, creating an atmosphere of reverence and
gratitude. These opening acts laid a soulful foundation for the day’s
proceedings.
In his welcome speech, Mr. Ishfaq
Ahmad Bhat, Lecturer in Education, eloquently captured the essence of the
day. He
said “Retirement is not merely an end; it is a celebration of the years of
commitment, effort, and the indelible marks left on countless lives. It is a
time to cherish memories, reflect on achievements, and look forward to new
beginnings. He described the retirees as pillars of the institution,
individuals whose contributions have deeply impacted countless lives. Reflecting
on Mr. Mohd Ishaq Lone, he emphasized his unwavering
discipline, boundless dedication, and the profound respect he garnered over the
years, earning him the affectionate title of “Medal Man”—a
tribute to his unparalleled achievements and relentless pursuit of excellence
in physical education. He described him as a role model who embodied
perseverance, inspiring both colleagues and students alike with his commitment
to fostering a culture of fitness and sportsmanship.
Turning to Mtr. Shabnum Amin,
he spoke of her nurturing spirit and motherly kindness, saying, “Conversations
with her always felt like speaking to my mother, someone who balanced
professionalism with warmth.” He concluded by emphasizing that retirement
is not an end but a new chapter, and extended the school’s heartfelt gratitude
and best wishes to the retirees for a life filled with happiness, health, and
contentment.
A series of heartfelt speeches
followed, as colleagues shared their reflections, anecdotes, and admiration.
Mr. Talib Hussain described Mr. Ishaq Lone
as an epitome of energy and enthusiasm, always going above and beyond in his
duties. Sharing lighthearted anecdotes, he called him not just a colleague but
a friend and mentor who could brighten any day. About Mtr. Shabnum Amin,
he remarked on her cheerful nature and exceptional teaching skills, adding
humorously that her culinary talents were equally exceptional.
Mr. Khursheed Ahmad Mir infused his speech with poetic verses, saying:
“Kahan ki ibtida maine, kahan jana nahi maloom,
Safar jo tai kiya maine, safar baqi nahi maloom.”
He reflected on the retirees’
unwavering dedication, describing their careers as a journey of immense
commitment. He confessed that saying goodbye to such impactful personalities
was a bittersweet moment and expressed his admiration for their efforts to
uplift the institution.
Mr. Rameez Mushtaq highlighted how the retirees had
transformed the lives of their students and colleagues alike. He praised their
ability to build confidence and inspire others, describing them as the foundation
of the school’s progress.
Mr. Fayaz Ahmad Attar, quoting Napoleon, remarked, “Give
me a good mother, and I will give you a great nation.” He likened Mtr.
Shabnum Amin’s nurturing role to that of a mother, praising her impact on
students’ lives. He called Mr. Mohd Ishaq a man of discipline and
professionalism, someone who consistently led by example.
Guest
Speaker Mr. M.A. Makmoor, quoting Maulana Rumi, remarked, "Goodbyes
are not only for those who leave but also for those who stay and cherish the memories."
Reflecting on the retirees, he described Mr. Mohd Ishaq Lone
as a gentle soul whose humility and dedication have left a lasting impact. He
encouraged both retirees to embrace this new chapter of life with faith,
optimism, and a sense of accomplishment. Adding to this, Mtr. Afshana
Jee highlighted Mr. Mohd Ishaq’s noble character and
unwavering kindness, emphasizing that both retirees should look back on their
careers with pride, knowing they have enriched countless lives and left an
indelible legacy.
Mr. Mohd Ayoub, Senior Lecturer, delivered a
comprehensive Spasnama (journey of life) of Mr. Ishaq, recounting
his journey from GHSS Sagam to his final tenure at HSS Akingam,
marking a career filled with dedication and success. Similarly, Ms. Ruqiya Anwar
presented Mtr. Shabnum Amin’s life journey, showcasing her growth from
her early days at BHS Anchidoora to her cherished role at HSS Akingam,
emphasizing her lasting impact on students and colleagues.
The event turned deeply emotional as
the daughters of Mr. Mohd Ishaq, Usra Ishaq and Rukshanda
Ishaq, shared their heartfelt messages.
Usra, in an emotional note, addressed her
father, saying, “Dear Abu, your dedication and hard work are an inspiration.
You’ve taught us that success lies in perseverance.” She thanked the school
for organizing such a beautiful tribute to her father’s career.
Rukshanda described her father as a rock and
a true leader, both at home and in his profession. She said, “To the world,
you are an exceptional educator, but to us, you are the cornerstone of our
lives. We are proud of the legacy you leave behind.” She expressed her
gratitude to the institution for honoring her father with such warmth and
respect.
Words from the Retirees
Mr. Mohd Ishaq Lone, overwhelmed with emotions,
expressed his gratitude to the staff, students, and guests. He said, “The
memories I have created here will remain with me forever. Every individual in
this institution has played a role in my growth and success.” He encouraged
students to remain disciplined and passionate about their goals and thanked his
colleagues for their unwavering support.
Mtr. Shabnum Amin, equally moved, spoke of her deep
connection with HSS Akingam. She said, “The love and respect I have received
here will be cherished forever. My time in Akingam has been the most fulfilling
phase of my career.” She praised the school’s staff and students,
expressing her gratitude for the grand farewell.
Mr. Mohd Abass Rather, Head of the Institution, commended
everyone for their efforts in organizing a memorable event. He remarked, “Every
ending is a new beginning. While we bid farewell to two of our finest, we
celebrate the immense legacy they leave behind.” He encouraged the staff to
continue building on the foundation set by the retirees and prayed for their
happiness and success.
The program concluded with a
heartfelt vote of thanks by Mr. Irfan Ahmad Badam, who expressed his
appreciation for the meticulous planning and contributions from every participant.
He said, “Today’s event is a testament to the deep respect and admiration we
hold for our retirees. Their legacy will continue to inspire generations to
come.” He thanked the guests, colleagues, and students for making the day
unforgettable.
The farewell was a perfect blend of
emotions, gratitude, and celebration. It marked not just the end of illustrious
careers but also the beginning of cherished memories that will forever resonate
within the walls of HSS Akingam. The event was a fitting tribute to two
educators who have left an indelible mark on the institution and the lives they
touched.
