To honour the contributions of teachers around the world, Teachers’ Day is celebrated on different days. In India, Teachers’ Day is observed every year on 5th September which marks the birth anniversary of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, a great philosopher, scholar, and the second President of India. This day is aimed at recognizing all the hard work invested by teachers and the extensive knowledge, guidance, and value they impart to their students.
Historical Background
Teachers’ Day in India has been celebrated since 1962, to honour one of the most revered educators Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan. He strongly advocated for the importance of education and viewed teachers as central figures in nation-building. Instead of celebrating his birthday, he suggested that this day be used to honour educators throughout the country. This is how the 5th of September became a national holiday to appreciate teachers.
In correlation with the growing appreciation for teachers, UNESCO declared October 5th as World Teachers Day in other parts of the world to honour their contributions and sacrifice.
Significance of Teachers’ Day
Teachers’ Day is more than an occasion for celebrating its teachers and students; it bears great significance since we reflect on the priceless contribution teachers make to the life of a student. Apart from being instructors, teachers are motivators, role models, factors of discipline, and critical thinkers. They build the moral fabric of an individual and decide what the individual is likely to become in the future.
On this Day, students also get an opportunity whereby they can appreciate their teachers by preparing special events and activities. At the same time, it helps the teachers to introspect on their methods of teaching in the classroom and their attitude towards teaching as a learning endeavour for life.
Celebrations Across India
In India, the celebration of Teachers’ Day is marked in schools, colleges, and learning institutions with a lot of fanfare. Students conduct cultural programs, activities, and games in honour of their mentors. Assembly programs are arranged in which students deliver speeches, enact skits, and recite poems in honour of their teachers.
In some schools, older students are made teachers for a class so that they handle the lessons and learn what it is like to be a teacher. The initiative is meant for students to appreciate what their teachers go through.
Institutions of learning bestow awards and certificates to exemplary teachers in appreciation of their commitment and hard work. Some numerous tweets and posts appreciate and thank teachers for their efforts and work towards selfless service.
The Function of Teachers in Constructing a Nation
Teachers are fundamental to the nation’s future. They are charged with the responsibility of moulding and grooming children. Students are recognized as professionals in different disciplines because of the skills and knowledge they instilled during the formative years of learning. A teacher’s responsibility does not end ainthe classroom and earning a good grade. Their passion should inspire pupils to broaden their perspectives, to cultivate creativity, and to become active citizens.
Considering the current rapid evolution brought by Technology and innovative ideas, teachers incorporate new strategies into teaching so that pupils are ready for the challenges ahead. They impart values such as self-esteem, determination, and sympathy which are the cornerstone for building a healthy and civilized nation.
Difficulties Faced By Teachers
Regardless of the major impact teachers have, they equally have their share of the challenges faced in practice. Some of the noteworthy challenges include:
Integration of Technology: The upgrading of skills concerning the integration of the schooling system into technology is a must due to digital education itself.
Gratitude and Appreciation: Some teachers may not receive as much respect and gratitude as they have rightfully earned, which can affect their morale and motivation levels.
How to Appreciate Teachers
Appreciation towards an educator’s role can come in many forms. Here are ways how one can show appreciation towards a teacher’s effort:
Impactful thank-you notes and letters can do wonders.
Surprising the teachers by arranging appreciation events in colleges and schools.
Social media platforms can be used to shout out or award the teacher’s achievements and contributions for recognition.
Advocating for improved working conditions and professional development for teachers is another way to assist.
Now there is no better way to show appreciation than simply giving your teacher the attention and respect he/she deserves in class.
Final Thoughts
On Global Teachers Day, we celebrate the unsung heroes who have made an impact in our lives – our educators. Teachers should never be taken for granted as they dedicate their lives to helping mould the citizens of tomorrow. Students are encouraged so much more because it is not easy to teach or to mentor everyone because as much as pouring knowledge and wisdom requires time and effort, so does imparting it. Therefore, it is prudent that all teachers are identified, respected, and supported in the undertaking of their work.
We wish all the selfless and hardworking teachers a happy teachers’ day! We celebrate our teachers for their never-ending love and support towards students like us. We want to acknowledge how this day is celebrated all over the world in honour of educators like you.