Tribute to Abdul Majeed Bhat’s remarkable services in education department

As the curtains draw close on his remarkable 36-year career in the education department, Mr Abdul Majeed Bhat, the esteemed Principal of HSS Khag, stands tall as a symbol of unwavering dedication and unparalleled commitment to the field of education. His journey, marked by milestones of excellence and achievements, has left an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of all those who have had the privilege of crossing paths with him.
Mr Bhat’s foray into the world of education was not merely a profession but a calling—a calling to inspire, nurture, and empower young minds. His passion for imparting knowledge, coupled with his belief in the transformative power of education, became the cornerstone of his illustrious career. He had joined the education department in 1988 and after serving as a teacher for merely 3 years he was promoted to lecturer in Physics in 1991 and in the same capacity discharged his duties in almost half a dozen higher secondary schools across three districts of Kashmir division.
In 2011 he was bestowed with the promotion as Principal and has been working in the same capacity till date. During his service career, he has not failed to see his students qualify for prestigious exams and secure high-profile positions in diverse fields such as civil services, medicine, engineering, teaching, etc.
Throughout his tenure, Mr Bhat has been a beacon of inspiration, leading by example and setting high standards of excellence. His leadership style, characterized by empathy, integrity, and a deep sense of responsibility, has not only earned him the respect and admiration of his colleagues but has also served as a guiding light for generations of students. Besides excellence in academics, he has always aspired to see the students depicting the highest moral standards and has shown his earnest zeal for their socio-emotional and ethical development.
Under his visionary leadership, HSS Khag, his last resort as Principal, has emerged as a citadel of learning, where students are not just educated but are also groomed to become responsible citizens and future leaders. Mr Bhat’s emphasis on holistic development has ensured that his students excel not just academically but also in extracurricular activities, thus preparing them for the challenges of the real world.
His three-year tenure as Principal of HSS Khag has been nothing short of transformative, marked by a series of developmental works that have reshaped the institution in ways unseen for the last four decades. His visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to excellence have not only revitalized the institution but have also set a new standard for educational institutions in the area. Under Mr. Bhat’s stewardship, HSS Khag has undergone a remarkable transformation, with infrastructure development projects that have breathed new life into the school. From modernizing classrooms to upgrading laboratories and libraries, and reshaping parks and gardens, Mr. Bhat has spared no effort in ensuring that the school provides a conducive environment for learning and growth.
One of the hallmarks of Mr Abdul Majeed Bhat’s tenure as Principal of HSS Khag has been his exceptional interpersonal skills, particularly in his interactions with his subordinates. His ability to forge strong and meaningful relationships with his colleagues has not only fostered a sense of unity and teamwork within the school but has also contributed significantly to the overall success and well-being of the institution.
Mr Bhat’s approachable demeanour and open communication style have made him a respected and beloved figure among his colleagues. He has always been willing to lend an ear, offer guidance, and provide support whenever needed, creating a conducive environment where everyone feels valued and appreciated. Regarding his approach, Shabir Ahmad Senior Lecturer of English at HSS Khag, says, “When he talked the humility spoke, when he listened the patience gave you an ear, when he acted the dynamism vibrated, when he looked the kindness hugged and when he leaves our words fall silent, our eyes lack lustre and our hearts are groaning in pain for one of the finest professional human beings”. This author had the privilege of working under his mentorship for almost 2 years and this period has left a long-lasting impact on my professional career and has reshaped my personality.
Moreover, Mr Bhat’s leadership is characterized by a sense of empathy and understanding, qualities that have endeared him to his subordinates. He has always been mindful of the challenges faced by his colleagues and has worked tirelessly to address their concerns and ensure their professional growth and development. His exemplary interpersonal skills have played a crucial role in fostering a sense of camaraderie and collaboration among all the staff members, making HSS Khag a truly special place to work.
In addition to his many admirable qualities, Mr Abdul Majeed Bhat is known for his extraordinary honesty, particularly in financial matters. Throughout his tenure, he has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to transparency and integrity, setting a shining example for his colleagues and students alike. His integrity extends beyond the confines of the school, as he is known for his ethical conduct in all aspects of his life. His reputation for honesty and integrity precedes him, making him a role model for others to emulate.
As Mr Abdul Majeed Bhat prepares to bid adieu to his illustrious career, his legacy of excellence and dedication will continue to inspire and motivate all those who have had the privilege of knowing him. His retirement marks not an end but a new beginning—the beginning of a well-deserved chapter of rest, relaxation, and rejuvenation. Despite his numerous accomplishments and accolades, he is known for his down-to-earth nature, which sets him apart as a leader of exceptional humility and grace. Throughout his career, he has remained approachable and humble, earning him the admiration and respect of all those he interacts with. He is always willing to lend a helping hand, offer words of encouragement, and listen attentively to the concerns of others, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere within the school. His sober nature will remain a defining trait of his legacy. His ability to remain humble and grounded, even in the face of success, serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of humility in leadership and the impact it can have on those around us.
We the students and staff members of HSS Khag salute Mr Abdul Majeed Bhat for his outstanding contributions to the field of education and wish him a retirement filled with joy, peace, and fulfillment. His legacy will forever be etched in the annals of education, serving as a beacon of hope and inspiration for generations to come. His departure makes us sad, but at the same time, we are happy to see him successfully completing his service period and leaving the department with good health and extreme satisfaction.
The writer is a teacher at HSS Khag Budgam and can be reached at [email protected]

Irshad Ahmad Wani