Veteran Physical Education Master Mohammad Rafiq Mir Bids Adieu to Active Service

The Education Department in Bandipora on Wednesday bid affectionate farewell to veteran Physical Education master Mohammad Rafiq Mir on reaching superannuation.

An emotional farewell ceremony was held at Government Girls Higher Secondary School (GGHSS) Bandipora as his students, colleagues, former students and colleagues organised a function to felicitate the retiring master and bid an affectionate farewell who is retiring from active service after an illustrious career spanning over 27 years.

Principal GGHSS Bandipora Javid Ahmad Magrey was the chief guest on the occasion while Imam-e-Hai Bandipora Moulana Khursheed Anwar Naqashbandi, former Deputy Chief Education Officer Rafiq Ahmad Parray, Ex principal Mohammad Ramzan Bhat along with other senior officers were present on the occasion.

Speaking on the occasion, the officers recalled the contribution of PEM Mohammad Rafiq Mir and wished him all luck for the post retirement life.

The Principal of GGHSS Bandipora, in his address, praised Mr. Mir’s unwavering commitment and called him a role model for both students and staff. A citation highlighting his achievements and service history was presented to him as a token of respect and admiration.

“We wish our beloved colleague, Mohammad Rafiq Mir Sahib, a healthy, peaceful, and fulfilling retired life,” the staff said collectively, as the gathering gave him a standing ovation.

Born on April 2, 1965, in Bandipora — the famed land of Alim, Adab and Aab — Mir pursued his early education locally and later earned his B.P.Ed degree from the College of Physical Education, Ganderbal in 1995.

Known for his enthusiasm, discipline, and deep commitment to promoting physical education and sports, Mir joined the Department of Youth Services and Sports (DYSS) as a Physical Education Teacher on November 9, 1997.

Over the years, he served at several institutions across Bandipora and Baramulla districts, including GHS Safapora, DYSS Baramulla, GHS Mantrigam, and HSS Aloosa, before concluding his service at GGHSS Bandipora.

Throughout his career, Mir was widely recognized for his dedication and contributions to school sports, earning accolades from both the DYSS and the School Education Department.

At today’s event, colleagues, students, and officials showered heartfelt tributes and shared memories of his invaluable mentorship and contribution to school life. The farewell concluded with emotional speeches where speakers recalled the illustrious career of Mir and also presented gifts of appreciation besides a collective prayer for his future endeavors.