A robust and quality-oriented education system is the force multiplier that shall transform India into one of the leading nations of the world, said President Pranab Mukherjee on the occasion of Teachers’ Day on Friday.
He said teachers influence the life of students by being their role models and motivate students throughout their academic life and, many a times, even beyond, but India today needs many more competent and willing teachers to dedicate themselves to improving the standard and quality of education being currently imparted.
“A teacher ideally is one who facilitates his students in realising and maximising their potential. In recognition of this stellar role, teachers have since time immemorial been accorded a special place in our society. They have been called Acharyas in our ancient texts since they transmit the norms of acceptable conduct to our future generations. It is important that they impart not only knowledge and learning but also our traditional values which form the bedrock of our civilization dating several millennia,” he said at a function to give away National Awards to 357 teachers from across the country.
The world faces challenges of violence, terrorism, intolerance and environmental degradation the President said, adding that the values of truth, tolerance, integrity, secularism and inclusiveness need to be imparted to the children to make the world a “safer and better” place to live in.
Acknowledging that the teachers work under diverse contexts and conditions, Mr. Mukherjee said the working conditions of teachers in many places are sub-optimal, however, over time there have been substantial improvements in salary scales and in the construction of proper school buildings with toilets and drinking water. “As teachers you devote countless hours of selfless service to the nation in nurturing our most valued resource – our children. Society and the country have high expectations from you. I am sure you will live up to these expectations in ample measure,” he said.
Earlier, in a message on the occasion of Teachers’ Day, he said teachers must be friends, philosophers and guiding lights to their students. He also exhorted society at large and in particular, students to show utmost respect and devotion to teachers.
