Reyaz Rashid
Sheeri, : An affectionate and tearful farewell ceremony was held at Government Boys Middle School (GBMS) Sheeri Payeen to bid an emotional adieu to Headmistress Hafiza Bano on her superannuation. The school, adorned with buntings, flowers, balloons, and student artwork, was packed to capacity as students, educators, officials, and community members gathered to honor her decades of dedicated service.
The event witnessed an overwhelming turnout, including education officials, colleagues, migrant Pandit teachers, trade union leaders, students, and family members—all united in celebrating her remarkable contributions to education.
Dignitaries Praise Her Legacy
Zonal Education Officer (ZEO) Fathegarh, Saif-ud-din Chachi, delivered a moving address, stating, “Though I recently joined this education zone, the achievements of this school, its work culture, and infrastructure have deeply impressed me. Hafiza Bano’s dedication has not only shaped this institution but transformed countless lives.”
Visibly emotional, ZEO Chachi added, “When I first visited this school, I was honored to see what my sister—a determined woman—could achieve. The discipline, academic excellence, and pristine classrooms stand as a testament to her extraordinary leadership.”
Mohammad Hanief Bhat, Section Officer ZEO Office Fathegarh, and Bhat Altaf, District President JKTA, also lauded her visionary leadership. Prominent attendees included Sheikh Abdul Rehman, Headmaster BMS Malopora and President Teachers Welfare Association, along with her family members Tanzila Imtiyaz and Furkan Imtiyaz.
Tributes from Colleagues and Students
Reyaz Ahmad Ganai, Senior Teacher and District General Secretary of Jammu and Kashmir Rehbar-e-Taleem Forum, fought back tears while recalling Bano’s mentorship. “She was a transformative leader who redefined academic excellence with her unwavering commitment,” he said.
Students paid touching tributes in Kashmiri and Urdu. Simran Farooq, her voice trembling, said, “You were more than a teacher—you were the mother who wiped our tears, shared our joys and sorrows, and gave us strength. We will never forget you.” Ulfat Rasheed described her as “a mentor who ignited young minds,” while Safiyaz Manzoor and Tazaka Hamid highlighted her relentless efforts in elevating the school’s academic and moral standards.
Rajinder Kumar (PET), in an emotional speech, reminisced about her compassionate leadership, leaving many in tears.
Hafiza Bano’s Emotional Farewell
Overcome with emotion, the usually composed headmistress wiped her eyes as she addressed the gathering. “These walls hold my life’s work,” she said, gesturing to the school. “Every scratch on these desks, every mark on these walls tells a story of our shared journey.”
Speaking to this reporter moments before leaving, she added, “Today is not an ending—it’s my transition from headmistress to proud alumna of this wonderful institution.” With a trembling voice, she expressed gratitude: “Your love has made my years here unforgettable.”
A Tearful Goodbye
As the ceremony concluded, the entire assembly stood in honor of the departing headmistress. Staff and students formed a guard of honor, many reaching out for a final embrace. Later, ZEO Fathegarh, migrant Pandit teachers, and dignitaries escorted her home in a gesture of deep respect.
The event ended with the presentation of gifts, a memento, garlands, and floral bouquets—symbolizing the immense love and respect she earned. The gathering bid her a tearful yet fond farewell, wishing her a peaceful and fulfilling retirement.
Hafiza Bano’s legacy as an educator, mentor, and motherly figure will forever remain etched in the hearts of those she inspired.