KARACHI, May 25: The birth centenary of Hugh Catchpole, the founder principal of Cadet College, Hasanabdal, will be celebrated on Saturday, according to a press release. Mr Catchpole, whose passion for teaching turned him into a living legend in the subcontinent, began his career in 1928 as an assistant master at the Indian Military College, Dehra Dun. In 1948, he was appointed principal of that institution — a position he held till 1953.

Mr Catchpole founded the Hasanabdal cadet college in 1953. He also served as principal of the PAF College, Sargodha.

In 1967, he retired from the college and joined the Abbottabad Public School, where he taught till the last day of his life — Feb 1, 1997.

In his will Hugh Catchpole wished to be laid to rest at the Hasanabdal cadet college. He willed all his money to the PAF College, Sargodha.

A committee has chalked out a series of activities at the institutions where Mr Catchpole taught. Gen Ehsanul Haq, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, is head of the body.

The prime minister will be the chief guest at the function at Hasanabdal cadet college on June 14. A commemorative stamp has also been issued.