For a better posterity
By: Aubaid Akhoon
‘To teach is to touch a life forever’. Every year, on September 5th, we pause to reflect on and express our gratitude for the invaluable contributions of teachers. Teachers’ Day is more than just a date on the calendar; it is a celebration of those who dedicate their lives to guiding the next generation, shaping not only their intellect but also their character, values, and aspirations.
The Essence of the Teaching Profession
Teaching is far more than the simple transmission of knowledge. It is a vocation, a calling that requires passion, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to nurturing the minds and hearts of students. Teachers are the architects of society, laying the foundational stones for every other profession. They shape the future by influencing the present, ensuring that each learner not only understands the world around them but also how they can contribute meaningfully to it.
In the 21st century, the teaching profession has evolved to encompass a broad spectrum of responsibilities. Modern teachers are not only responsible for delivering content; they are also tasked with inspiring change, fostering creativity, and encouraging critical thinking. They play a crucial role in developing a student’s ability to navigate an increasingly complex world, where knowledge is constantly expanding and the boundaries of what is possible are continuously being redefined.
The Sacred Bond between Teacher and Student
Among the myriad relationships in life, few are as revered as that between a teacher and a student. This bond transcends the mere exchange of information. It is a relationship built on trust, respect, and mutual growth. In many cultures, including Islam, the teacher’s status is considered on par with that of a parent. This is because teachers, like parents, shape the moral and intellectual foundation of a child.
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) emphasized the importance of teachers by identifying himself as one: “I was sent as a teacher.” This underscores the profound impact that teaching can have on an individual’s life and the collective progress of society. Parents also play the role of a teacher, and the home is considered the first university of children. Whatever children learn from their parents up until the age of puberty shapes their future lives. Teachers are, in essence, the torchbearers of wisdom, guiding their students through the intricate maze of life.
A good teacher is not just a purveyor of facts but a role model in character, ethics, and behavior. They inspire students by living the values they teach, demonstrating the importance of kindness, patience, empathy, and integrity. In this way, teachers help mold students into not just knowledgeable individuals but also responsible and ethical members of society.
The Modern Challenges of Teaching
The role of a teacher in the modern age is more demanding than ever before. The rapid pace of technological advancement and the ever-changing societal landscape require teachers to be lifelong learners themselves. They must continually update their knowledge and skills to stay relevant and effective in their teaching.
Moreover, the challenges of the 21st century extend beyond the classroom. Teachers must also address the moral and ethical dilemmas that arise in a world where information is abundant but wisdom is scarce. They are tasked with helping students navigate the complexities of social media, the pressures of academic achievement, and the challenges of mental health and well-being.
In this context, moral education becomes as crucial as academic education. Knowledge without a foundation of ethical principles is like a tree without roots—it may grow, but it will never bear fruit. The Qur’an emphasizes the importance of moral education, with many verses dedicated to the development of good character and ethical behavior. In essence, the pursuit of knowledge should go hand in hand with the pursuit of moral integrity.
Appreciation and Criticism of the Teaching Profession
While many teachers are dedicated and passionate about their work, there are unfortunately some who fall short of the high standards expected of them. It is disheartening to hear stories of teachers who lack basic skills or who are disengaged from their responsibilities.
However, it is important to approach criticism constructively. The goal should be to uplift the teaching profession, not to tear it down. One way to do this is by providing ongoing professional development for teachers, ensuring they have access to the latest educational tools and resources. Regular assessments of teachers’ performance, similar to the evaluations students undergo, could help maintain high standards in education.
Additionally, the government could consider policies that encourage teachers to invest personally in the institutions where they work. For example, requiring government teachers to enroll their children in government schools could create a vested interest in improving the quality of education in these institutions.
Balancing Duties: Why Teachers Should Focus on Education
With elections approaching in Kashmir, teachers are often assigned election duties, training, and various additional responsibilities to conduct these elections. Participation is deemed mandatory, and while some teachers may welcome these duties because of the additional perks, this practice raises concerns about their primary role as educators.
Teachers should ideally focus solely on their professional teaching duties to ensure the standard of education in government schools remains high. Unfortunately, many government schools have yet to even conduct a single exam this year, highlighting the negative impact these additional responsibilities can have on education.
The government should consider providing election duties and other roles in various programs to unemployed youth, offering them both training and an opportunity to earn a livelihood. This approach would not only alleviate the burden on teachers but also address unemployment, ensuring that educational standards in government schools do not suffer.
Moreover, the government should refrain from using educational institutes as election booths, as this disrupts the academic schedule and hampers the learning process. The loss of instructional days contributes to a decline in educational outcomes, particularly in government schools, where performance is already a concern. This disruption could further exacerbate the gap in educational standards, affecting students’ future opportunities and the overall quality of education. Alternative venues for election booths should be considered to ensure that students’ education remains uninterrupted.
The Path Forward: Uplifting the Teaching Profession
Improving the quality of education, particularly in government schools, is a critical need of the hour. This requires a multi-faceted approach that includes professional development, resource allocation, and systemic changes in how education is delivered and assessed.
In-service training programs should be introduced to help teachers stay abreast of modern educational practices and technologies. Such programs would not only improve the quality of education but also boost teachers’ confidence and competence, enabling them to better serve their students.
Early this morning, I received a thought-provoking message from a friend, highlighting how many government school teachers are often found in markets, buying gifts and cards for their children who are enrolled in private schools. This observation underscores a critical issue: the lack of personal investment in the very institutions where they teach. Encouraging government teachers to enroll their children in government schools could be a transformative strategy.
This move would not only create a personal stake in the quality of education provided but also foster a deeper commitment to improving these institutions. Additionally, the introduction of regular assessments for teachers could be another step toward enhancing educational standards. These assessments should be constructive, focusing on identifying areas where teachers may need additional support or training, rather than serving as punitive measures. Such an approach would promote professional growth and ensure that teachers are equipped to deliver the best possible education to their students.
Finally, society as a whole needs to recognize and celebrate the vital role that teachers play in shaping the future. This involves not just words of appreciation but tangible support in the form of resources, professional development opportunities, and policies that prioritize education.
A Personal Contribution to Education
Whether in a supporting role behind the scenes or in more direct involvement, I, like many others, contribute to students’ education by orchestrating exams, creating assignments, and providing practice papers. We are silent observers to the remarkable dedication of teachers who mold the minds of our budding learners. With a profound sense of pride, we find ourselves deeply engaged in their educational journey, sowing the seeds of knowledge alongside these inspiring educators.
As we celebrate Teachers’ Day, let us remember that the impact of a teacher extends far beyond the classroom. Teachers shape the future by inspiring the next generation to dream, to learn, and to become the best versions of themselves. They are not just educators but mentors, guides, and role models who leave an indelible mark on the lives of their students.
In the words of Scott Hayden, “Teachers have three loves: love of learning, love of learners, and the love of bringing the first two loves together.” Let us honor these guiding lights by supporting them in every possible way, ensuring they have the tools, resources, and respect they need to continue their vital work.
Bottom Line: Honoring the Eternal Influence of Teachers
As we celebrate Teachers’ Day, let us recognize the profound impact teachers have on society. They are not only educators but also mentors, shaping the character and future of our youth. It is a day to honor their dedication, inspire change, and pledge our support to empower these guiding lights as they lead us toward a brighter and more enlightened future.
A Reflection by Allama Iqbal: “Nahin hai na-ummeed Iqbal apni kisht-e-veeran se,
Zara num ho to yeh mitti bahut zarkhez hai saqi.”
“Iqbal is not despondent of his barren land,
With a little moisture, this soil can become very fertile.”
This couplet by Allama Iqbal perfectly encapsulates the potential that lies within each student—a potential that teachers are uniquely positioned to unlock. With the right guidance and care, even the most barren lands can become fertile, yielding a rich harvest of knowledge, wisdom, and virtue.
(The author is a Columnist and a Motivational Speaker)
KV News
