RAWALPINDI, Pakistan — Pir Mehr Ali Shah Arid Agriculture University Rawalpindi (PMAS-AAUR) hosted a formal farewell dinner to recognize the contributions of its retired faculty members, administrative staff, and university employees. Punjab Higher Education Commission (PHEC) Chairperson Prof. Dr. Iqrar Ahmad Khan attended as the chief guest, alongside PMAS-AAUR Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Qamar-uz-Zaman, who welcomed the attendees.

Academia Beyond Retirement: Utilizing Senior Expertise

Addressing the gathering, Prof. Dr. Iqrar Ahmad Khan congratulated the retirees on completing their professional careers and praised their dedication to the institution. He emphasized that in higher education, an academic's role does not end with formal retirement because their knowledge and experience continue to benefit society.

The PHEC Chairperson urged universities to design structured policies that keep retired professors and researchers engaged. He noted that their expertise remains vital for mentoring young faculty, guiding university students, and contributing to academic planning.

Honoring a Legacy of Institutional Growth

Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Qamar-uz-Zaman stated that the retired employees remain a permanent part of the university family. He remarked that the milestones achieved by the institution were built directly upon the decades of hard work put in by its faculty and staff.

The event concluded with the presentation of commemorative shields to the retirees in recognition of their long-standing service. Notable honorees included:

• Prof. Dr. Khalid Saif Ullah Khan (Former Pro-Vice Chancellor)

• Prof. Dr. Tariq Mukhtar (Former Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture)

• Numerous senior administrative officers and support staff