Staff Correspondent
A send-off fit for a king, not for a retirement, but for a cherished educator’s final lesson.
In a scene reminiscent of a bygone era, an entire town became the classroom for a teacher’s final lesson. Instead of a simple office farewell, Assistant Teacher Abdul Jalil was given a send-off of royal proportions upon his retirement after a dedicated 35-year career.
This past Thursday, students and colleagues of Fulbari Jashimia Model Government High School in Kurigram said their goodbyes with flowers and emotional tributes. Then, in a truly majestic gesture, they ushered him onto a decorated horse-drawn carriage and paraded him through the town before escorting him home.
Mr. Jalil, who taught science with unwavering honesty and dedication, had built a relationship of deep affection and respect with everyone around him. His farewell saw an outpouring of love from former students and community members of all professions.
Student Robin shared, “Jalil Sir was an exceptionally good man. He taught us with the care and affection of a father. Today, we are losing a wonderful teacher from our school. We pray for his long life.”
His colleague, Teacher Ayub Ali, said, “Today, we bid farewell to a wonderful colleague. He always gave us good advice and treated everyone with kindness. He taught his students with immense sincerity. I doubt this void he leaves will ever be filled.”
The departing teacher, Abdul Jalil, was moved by the unprecedented honor. “I never could have imagined my farewell would be celebrated with such respect and such a colorful event,” he said. “I am blessed by the love of my colleagues and students. Everyone please pray for me, and I will also pray for everyone’s wellbeing.