MY RESPECTED SUPERIORS, DEPARTMENT COLLEAGUES, FRIENDS OF FOREIGN MISSIONS,

PROFESSIONAL FRIENDS AND STUDENTS, AoA

It is shared with you all that I am retiring from government service from the post of Director on 20 th
February 2024. I would have to thank you for all that you have done for me. As I prepare to leave the
office and enter into a new chapter of life, I find myself reflecting on the incredible journey I
have shared. The countless memories, the challenges I have overcome, and the shared
happiness, it has all shaped my professional life in ways I could never have imagined. It has been
a pleasure for me to work with all of you. As my last day approaches, I want to express
my gratitude to each one of you for your support, guidance, and collaboration.

Now, I will carry with me not just the knowledge and skills acquired over the years, but also the
warmth of trust. I proudly share that it was my privilege since the beginning of my career in
1990, to work with renowned scholars of Archaeology. I honestly value everything that I have
learned from my superiors, they will forever remain a major contributor to my success and
achievements. You have shown me the value of honesty, sincerity, and trust in office affairs.
Following the footprints of my superiors, I worked in the field all the time with dedication,
honesty, and hard work.

I want to express my deepest gratitude to my department colleagues for believing in me. You
have been an excellent friend, teacher, mentor, and a great inspiration for me. You have inspired
me to pursue my goals with hard work and dedication.

I also want to thank all my friends from foreign archaeological missions who have taught me in
the field. I have no hesitation in mentioning that the knowledge and wisdom you have imparted
to me have been a great help and support throughout my career, especially in the field & and
for research publications. I believe my success is at least due to your sincere support and
guidelines.

It would not be fair, if I did not thank those students from different universities in Pakistan and
abroad who joined me in excavations, explorations, and conservations on different sites, I always
tried to learn from them and share the techniques accordingly and always behaved positively, so
they could be comfortable in the field when they are away from their homes & families

Once again thank you all for being more than just office & field colleagues; you’ve been my
extended family. Your companionship, support, and solid dedication have made every day at the
office and in the field meaningful.

Last but not least I thanks to my all family members who cooperated with me, as I was mostly in
the field throughout my career on different projects and they suffer a lot during my absence.

With heartfelt gratitude and warm regards.

Dr Syed Shakir Ali Shah