Teachers the unsung architects of our tomorrows

New Straits Times

17-05-2025

It is Teachers Day once again. School halls echo with the excited chatter of Teachers Day celebration. But the fundamental question is: beyond the annual fanfare, are we seeing our teachers?
Are we grasping the weight of their calling, the sheer artistry involved in moulding young minds? Beyond the celebrations, I urge everyone to pause and reflect on the profound role our teachers play in shaping not just individuals, but also the very fabric of our nation.
Think back to your school days. Can you picture a teacher who made a difference? Perhaps it was the one who patiently explained a difficult concept until the lightbulb flickered on in your young mind.
Maybe it was the one who saw a spark of potential and pushed you to strive for more. Or perhaps it was the one who offered a listening ear and a word of encouragement during a challenging time.
They are testaments to the enduring power of teachers' influence. They are the architects who lay the foundation of knowledge, skill and character in our children.
They nurture curiosity, ignite a passion for learning, and instil values that will guide our future leaders, innovators and responsible citizens.
In a world that is constantly evolving, the challenges faced by our educators are becoming increasingly complex. They are not just imparting facts from textbooks. They are navigating diverse classrooms, addressing individual learning needs, and preparing students for a future filled with both opportunities and uncertainties.
They are also counsellors, mentors and even surrogate parents, all while juggling administrative tasks and curricula.
It is easy to take their dedication for granted. We see the school gates close at the end of the day and might not fully appreciate the hours teachers spend preparing lessons, grading assignments and worrying about the well-being of students.
We might not realise the emotional investment they make in each child's progress, celebrating their triumphs and offering support during their struggles.
Teachers Day is more than just an occasion for appreciation. It is an opportunity for introspection. How can we, as a community, better support these vital pillars of society?
It starts with acknowledging their invaluable contribution, not just with words, but also with tangible actions. This could mean actively engaging in our children's education, fostering a culture of respect for educators, and advocating for better resources and recognition for the teaching profession.
Hence, as the celebration unfold and the "Thank You, Cikgu" echoes through the school grounds, let us pledge to carry that gratitude beyond a single day.
Let us recognise the immense responsibility teachers carry and the profound impact they have on shaping the future of the nation, one student at a time.
For it is within the quiet dedication of these unsung heroes that the blueprints of our nation's tomorrow are being drawn.
Happy Teachers Day.
Senior lecturer,
Faculty of Education and Liberal Arts, INTI International University