Shahnawaz Ali
“Iqra bismi rabbika alladhi khalaq” – “Read in the name of your Lord who created” – these divine words marked the beginning of human enlightenment. In the serene yet striving landscapes of South Kashmir’s Kulgam district, this message is being brought to life every day by a man whose mission is not merely professional, but profoundly personal.
In an age where bureaucracy often becomes a barrier to change, Kulgam has discovered in its Chief Education Officer, Mohd Shabir, a rare exception—a visionary, a reformer and above all, a passionate guardian of the right to education. With an unwavering commitment to every child’s future, he works tirelessly—not for accolades but for impact.
“میں اکیلا ہی چلا تھا جانبِ منزل مگر
لوگ ساتھ آتے گئے اور کارواں بنتا گیا”
This verse encapsulates Mr. Shabir’s journey. What began as a personal crusade has blossomed into a collective movement of educators, students and citizens striving to uplift education in Kulgam.
From day one, he has immersed himself in understanding the challenges faced by schools—be it poor infrastructure, lack of teaching staff, absenteeism or lack of motivation among students.
Instead of confining himself to an office, he is often seen visiting schools, inspecting classrooms, interacting with teachers and students and solving problems on the spot. His hands-on approach has not only brought discipline but has also built a strong connection between the administration and the local community.
One of the most commendable aspects of his work is his inclusive vision. He ensures that schools are welcoming, clean and well-equipped with necessary facilities. He has pushed for libraries to be functional, science labs to be upgraded and digital learning to be introduced wherever possible. Special focus has been given to girl students and those from underprivileged backgrounds, ensuring they receive the support they need—be it in the form of free textbooks, uniforms, midday meals or scholarships.
Beyond academics, he has also focused on extracurricular activities, understanding the need for overall development. He has encouraged schools to organize sports, cultural programs and science exhibitions, giving students a platform to showcase their talents and build confidence.
His long and devoted working days reflect the incredible energy he invests in attending review meetings, conducting surprise inspections, coordinating with teachers and even visiting students’ homes to encourage parents to send their children to school regularly. He takes personal interest in dropout cases, treating each one as a challenge to overcome. In many instances, his personal intervention has brought students back to the classroom.
Thanks to his efforts, the district is witnessing a significant rise in student attendance, academic performance and overall school engagement. Teachers feel supported, motivated and empowered under his leadership. Many educators say that for the first time in years, they feel hopeful about the future of education in the district.
District Kulgam is truly fortunate to have such a committed officer like Mohd Shabir leading its education sector. His journey stands as a testament to what can be achieved when one person takes initiative with a genuine heart and tireless spirit. His selfless service is not just improving schools—it is shaping futures, building dreams and creating a legacy that will inspire generations to come.
As Kulgam continues to rise as a model district in terms of educational development, it is this one man’s relentless dedication that stands at the core of the transformation. He is not just an officer—he is a mentor, a reformer and above all, a true servant of education.