A moving scene unfolded at a government school in Gilgit as the famous poet, author and teacher Abdul Hafeez Shakir marked his pension after more than four decades of service.
In a powerful gesture of gratitude, four of his former students revived a tradition he had introduced more than 25 years ago.
Back in 1996, Shakir trained a group of four boys to lead the national anthem at the Morning Assembly – a responsibility they performed until 1999.
The exercise, he often told colleagues, was not just about acting, but about discipline, dignity and incorporating pride in young minds.
On Sunday, the same students – now senior professionals in their respective areas – were returned to the stage and sang the anthem again, this time as a farewell to their teacher.
“When we were told that our beloved teacher withdrew, we would do something special. Nothing could have been more appropriate than singing his anthem once again,” said Abid Khawaja, now a section manager in the provincial government.
The four classmates have since passed on to prominent positions: Hassan Ali serves as Deputy Director of the Food Department, Usman Ali teaches at the school itself, where they once studied, Shahabuddin works in the Gilgit-Baltist assembly, and Khawaja is an official.
“This was an overwhelming moment for us,” Khawaja said. “Whatever we are today is the result of Sir Shakir’s guidance and tireless efforts. His kindness and teaching remain the most valuable assets in our lives.”
Shakir, visibly moved during the ceremony, said he had never imagined his student would honor him in such a way. “For a teacher, there is no greater reward than watching one’s students succeed in life and remembering you with respect,” he told the audience. “This moment will remain with me forever.”
Shakir is widely respected by Gilgit-Baltistan, and is not only known as an educational man, but also as a poet, playwright and cultural voice. His works in Urdu and Shina have inspired generations, while his teaching career, which began in the early 1980s, produced a long list of students who today serve as professionals, public staff, doctors, engineers and writers.
On goodbye, colleagues, students and members of the community paid tribute to his lifelong service. Many asked for his health and long life and described him as a “teacher of teachers” whose influence will last far beyond the classroom.
