Upright teacher who groomed a generation of docs
The second death anniversary of Professor M. T. M. Jiffry falls tomorrow, September 17. The unexpected and untimely departure of Prof. M. T. M. Jiffry two years ago has left a great void in the family. Even after two years, we feel his loss deeply, because he was accessible to all who needed his services.
Prof. Jiffry was a shining example to the younger generation of doctors. He was someone who pursued the cause of medicine above and beyond comfort zones and personal gain.
He hailed from the southern coastal city of Matara. He was attached to the Medical Faculty of Sri Jayawardenapura University, where he excelled. He did not chase fame or fortune. In fact, his enthusiasm and efforts in the field of medicine brought him fame and fortune.
He was a towering influence on many students in their formative years. Doctors who were his students owe him a debt of gratitude for all he taught them and the values he inculcated in them.
He won the hearts and respect of the student fraternity. He was respected not only for his medical knowledge and skills but also his humanitarian ways.
Those near and dear to him never expected his departure to be so sudden. We still feel that the cruel hands of Fate snatched him away from our midst too soon, but we feel that he continues to be with us.
At the Faculty of Medicine at Sri Jayawardenepura, Prof. Jiffry stood for what was right. He was loved and looked up to for his advice and suggestions in the UGC.
I happened to be among the UGC crowd during Prof. Jiffry’s funeral. From the chit-chat, I gathered that he was the livewire behind the UGC. The present Chairman, Prof. Gamini Samaranayake, was very close to him. He even accompanied the funeral to the Dehiwela Mosque.
Prof. Jiffry’s kindness and compassion knew no bounds. He never abused power nor privilege. Truth and justice were the hallmarks of his existence. In all his dealings, he maintained the highest ethical standards.
It is no exaggeration to say that these qualities earned him a place on the LLRC. It was most unfortunate that he could not attend even one sitting of the LLRC. His sudden illness prevented him from attending the LLRC sessions.
He was a gentleman of absolute honesty and integrity.
Fowzi Jiffry was proud of her husband’s achievements, although she never bragged that she had played an important role as the Professor’s partner in life. The Jiffrys were devoted to each other. Fowzi was a source of support and strength to her husband. Everywhere the Professor went, Fowzi was sure to accompany her husband.
Prof. Jiffry’s departure from this world was as he wanted it to be – free of suffering. May Allah grant him Jennathul Firdouse, and may his wife Fowzia Jiffry be blessed with the strength and courage to face life’s realities.
M. I. Mohamed Ansar