Teaching, often hailed as a “noble profession,” holds a peculiar status in society. It’s a profession that shapes the minds of the future but is seldom revered or appreciated as it deserves.
While the establishment of annual teachers’ day celebrations was meant to transform this situation, it seems to have resulted in an emerging attenuation of the profession.
This writer delves into the plight of teachers and the need for change, highlighting the lack of festivities and recognition they receive on teachers’ day.
World Teachers’ Day: A Glance at Its Significance
World teachers’ day, celebrated on 5 October every year, is a global event dedicated to honouring teachers. It commemorates the adoption of the 1966 ILO/UNESCO recommendation concerning the Status of Teachers, which set benchmarks for the rights and responsibilities of educators, as well as standards for their training, employment, and working conditions. This day serves as a reminder to celebrate the transformative power of teachers and to reflect on the support they require to excel in their vocation.
A Shortage of Recognition
Despite the importance of teaching, teachers often find themselves in a thankless profession, that is not meant for someone with a great ambition.
In Nigeria, for instance, Teachers Day is celebrated without the festivities and recognition that should accompany it. While teachers play a pivotal role in shaping future generations, they receive meager rewards for their efforts.
Awards and Recognition: A Missing Element
One crucial aspect that’s often overlooked on Teachers Day is the acknowledgment of outstanding educators. Exceptional teachers who make a significant impact on their students’ lives deserve awards and recognition. This not only motivates them to continue their excellent work but also serves as a token of appreciation for their dedication.
However, in many cases, schools fail to recognise their teachers adequately. It’s a common belief that a teacher’s rewards are reserved for the afterlife, a notion that needs to change.
Teachers should be honoured with tangible awards and celebrations in this lifetime to encourage them further.
Nothing stops companies from choosing their brand ambassadors among teachers.
Societal Disrepute: A Harsh Reality
The societal attitude towards teachers can be disheartening. Instances where landlords refuse to rent to teachers due to stereotypes about their financial struggles are all too common.
In Nigeria, a staggering 98 per cent of teachers live on loans just to make ends meet. This paints a grim picture of the economic challenges they face.
Lack of Government Support: A Systemic Issue
Another issue is the lack of government support. While the government readily declares national holidays to celebrate religious festivals and other occasions, it rarely deems it necessary to grant teachers a public holiday. This neglect only adds to the sense of being unappreciated.
The Myth of Heavenly Rewards
The notion that a teacher’s rewards are reserved for the afterlife persists. This spiritual belief often leads to the unjust treatment of educators. Teachers who work tirelessly are expected to accept meager compensation with the promise of better rewards in the hereafter.
Conclusion
The transformation of the teaching profession starts with acknowledging its significance. The government must take the lead in recognising the vital role teachers play in society. By offering better remuneration, support, and public recognition, we can begin to rectify the current state of the profession. Everyone, including teachers, deserves a chance to lead a fulfilling life, free from financial constraints and societal stereotypes.
Only through concerted efforts can we truly celebrate Teachers Day with the festivity and honour that educators rightfully deserve.
You have said it all. May God reward teachers.
Teachers are great and greatest first Physicians that the has and without teachers I don’t know how this World will look like.
God bless our TEACHERS.