Vijay Garg
A teacher holds the profound responsibility of nation-building. They are like a candle, burning themselves to illuminate the lives of others through the light of knowledge. However, unlike a candle that eventually burns out, the knowledge a teacher imparts continues to grow, spreading from one mind to another, igniting a chain of enlightenment. Even after retirement, dedicated teachers never let the lamp of knowledge extinguish, instead, they light up countless minds. Such teachers remain alive in the hearts and minds of their students long after their physical presence has faded. It is a great honor to have been guided by such individuals.
Teaching, in its truest sense, goes beyond just being a profession for livelihood. A genuine teacher, like the great philosopher Socrates, seeks knowledge continuously, not only imparting it to students but also inspiring thought in passers-by. They engage with questions, calm curiosities, and are driven by an intrinsic duty to serve their students, nurturing them as if they were their own children.
Many teachers face challenges, especially in government schools, where students often come from backgrounds where education may not be a priority at home. Some teachers feel disheartened by the lack of support from parents or by the indifference of their students. Yet, even in these circumstances, the sincere teacher finds satisfaction when a former student returns to express gratitude, acknowledging the lessons and support that have led them to success.
A teacher’s impact can extend far beyond the classroom. The seeds of goodness planted by a teacher in their students can have a ripple effect, promoting positive behavior that counters negativity in society. Honest teaching during school hours, full engagement with students, and the promotion of reading and good literature can yield remarkable results.
However, it is essential to remember that education is not just about securing jobs. It is about equipping students with the knowledge and skills to navigate life beautifully. While the pressures and limitations of modern teaching—such as restrictions on discipline—can make the job difficult, there are many educators who rise to the occasion. These dedicated teachers develop new strategies to improve learning, making their teaching engaging and impactful, and inspiring their students to achieve their potential.
Unfortunately, not all teachers take their duties as seriously. Some neglect their responsibilities, arriving late to class or failing to engage with students. Such behavior undermines the sacred task of education and harms the children who depend on them for guidance. It only takes a few negligent teachers to cast a shadow over the entire profession.
Students, even at a young age, can distinguish between the dedicated and the indifferent teachers. They recognize the efforts of those who truly care about their well-being and growth. Teachers who prioritize their students’ needs over their own pride or vanity are the ones who earn respect, not just for their appearance, but for the good they bring into the lives of their students.
Adolescence, a critical stage of development, presents many challenges for both students and teachers. Children at this age are discovering their identities and need guidance to navigate the complexities of life. Teachers and parents share the responsibility of providing this guidance, showing children the difference between right and wrong, and offering the tools to succeed. If both parents and teachers fail to engage with children during this stage, the consequences can be difficult to reverse.
Many teachers devote their lives to enlightening their students, while some, unfortunately, retire without ever fully sharing their knowledge. Others focus on their own recognition, preparing documents to seek awards, instead of focusing on the greater reward of seeing their students succeed and become good human beings.
In an ideal world, the education department should recognize the work of deserving teachers and recommend them for awards, without the need for self-promotion. However, the greatest honor any teacher can receive is the knowledge that they have made a positive impact on their students’ lives. The most important responsibility of a teacher is to inspire their students to learn, guide them through difficulties, encourage their creative development, and most importantly, instill in them the qualities that will make them good human beings.
Parents must support teachers in this endeavor so that, together, they can create a brighter future for the children. By working hand in hand, teachers and parents can help shape a beautiful society, a prosperous country, and a better world.
Vijay Garg
Retired Principal and Educational Columnist, Malout, Punjab
