By Dr. Ashaq Hussain
Teachers’ Day is a special occasion dedicated to honoring educators for their invaluable contributions to society. Celebrated on the 5th of September in India, this day holds great significance as it marks the birth anniversary of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, a renowned philosopher, scholar, and India’s second President. Dr. Radhakrishnan’s deep dedication to education and his transformative ideas about teaching continue to inspire educators across the nation. On this day, we not only pay homage to the memory of a visionary leader but also recognize the modern teachers who embody the spirit of teaching in a rapidly evolving world. Today, on this special day, it is essential to reflect on the changing landscape of education and how modern teaching skills are shaping the future of our students.
Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan once said, “Teachers should be the best minds in the country.” His words underline the vital role teachers play in shaping the future of a nation. Dr. Radhakrishnan’s emphasis on the role of teachers and their potential to inspire and guide students is as relevant today as it was in his time. Today, the field of education is constantly evolving due to advancements in technology, changes in societal norms, and the growing diversity of students. Additionally, modern teachers face an immense workload that often goes unnoticed. The demands of curriculum development, lesson planning, grading, and administrative tasks can leave teachers feeling overwhelmed and burnt out. With increasing class sizes and pressure to meet standardized testing requirements, the workload continues to mount, leaving teachers with limited time for personal and professional growth. But, to honor the spirit of Dr. Radhakrishnan, modern educators have adapted to these changes by embracing modern teaching skills to provide the best possible education to their students by advancements in technology, changing societal needs, and innovative pedagogical approaches, thus we find ourselves at the forefront of this shift, embracing new methodologies and adapting to the ever-evolving educational landscape.
Despite the importance of education, many teachers struggle with insufficient resources in their classrooms. Inadequate funding for teaching learning material often leads to outdated teaching aids, limited technology, and a lack of essential supplies. But still, modern teachers try their best to be resourceful and creative to provide quality education despite these limitations. Today, teachers utilize online platforms, multimedia resources, and interactive applications to make learning engaging and accessible. Virtual classrooms have become the norm, enabling educators to reach students worldwide, transcending geographical boundaries.
Modern teachers understand that every student is unique, with different learning styles and paces. They strive to create personalized learning experiences that cater to individual needs, fostering a deeper understanding of the subject matter. This approach not only enhances student engagement but also promotes critical thinking and problem-solving skills. In today’s knowledge-driven economy, creativity and innovation are highly prized. Modern teachers encourage students to think outside the box, explore their passions, and develop a creative mindset. They create an environment that nurtures curiosity, enabling students to become lifelong learners who continuously seek knowledge and innovation. The world is more interconnected than ever before, and modern teachers recognize the importance of global awareness. They incorporate global perspectives into their lessons, exposing students to diverse cultures, ideas, and issues. This broadens students’ horizons, instilling empathy and a sense of responsibility towards global challenges. While academic knowledge is crucial, modern teachers also focus on nurturing essential soft skills like communication, teamwork, and emotional intelligence. These skills are vital for success in the modern workforce, and educators play a pivotal role in helping students develop them.
So, everyone today knows and recognizes that the spirit of teaching extends beyond the classroom and goes far beyond the mere transmission of information and as such teachers are essential contributors to society, yet they sometimes feel undervalued and unsupported. The lack of respect for the teaching profession is reflected in lower facilities compared to the education and experience required. Additionally, teachers may face criticism from parents, administrators, and policymakers, making it challenging to perform their duties effectively. Managing a classroom with diverse students and their unique needs is no easy feat. Many modern teachers encounter disruptive behavior, lack of discipline, and the increasing prevalence of mental health issues among students. Addressing these issues requires both patience and empathy, often without the necessary training or resources to do so effectively.
Last, but not the least, Education policies, examination/evaluation patterns are changing frequently, affecting curriculum standards, evaluation criteria, and teaching methods. Teachers are often required and forced to adapt quickly to these changes, which disrupt their established teaching practices and lead to added stress and confusion.
To conclude with, Teacher’s Day is not only a day to celebrate the contributions of educators but also a reminder of the responsibilities and challenges that come with modern teaching and teachers. In the spirit of Dr. S. Radhakrishnan, teachers should strive to adapt, evolve, and equip themselves with the necessary skills to provide a high-quality education that prepares students for the demands of the 21st century. By embracing change and adopting modern teaching skills, educators on their part have proven their skills and are continuing to inspire and shape the future of our nation, just as Dr. Radhakrishnan envisioned.
Thus, it is essential to recognize and appreciate the dedication and resilience of these modern teachers who continue to inspire and educate future generations, and side by side face numerous challenges that often go unnoticed. On Teachers’ Day, let everyone recognize the modern teachers who embody the evolving spirit of teaching by adapting to changing times, embracing technology, and inspiring students to become lifelong learners and responsible global citizens. As we honor their dedication and passion, let us remember that education is the cornerstone of progress and that modern teachers are the architects of our future. It’s thus crucial for society, policymakers, and educational institutions to address their issues, provide support and resources, and ensure that teachers receive the respect and recognition they truly deserve. In doing so, we can help create a more nurturing and sustainable environment for both educators and students.
On this special day, we pay our tribute to those whose guidance is absolute. They have opened doors to worlds unknown, and made our dreams steadily grow. In your lessons, we’ve found our way, thank you, teachers, for every day. So let us celebrate this day, to honor you in every way. For your dedication, we say “hooray,” Happy Teachers’ Day, we proudly say.
Views expressed in the article are the author’s own and do not necessarily represent the editorial stance of Kashmir Observer
- Dr. Ashaq Hussain is Associate Professor Chemistry at Govt. Degree College Chatroo and can be reached at [email protected]
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