Today is celebrated all over the world as Teachers Day. It is a good set aside to tell teachers thank you for the beautiful work they do. Truly teachers deserve all the love and gratitude. The teaching profession is one profession people look down on but it is the core profession and the fiber of the society.
Teachers are a blessing to the world. No matter who you are or what you have become today, we were all taught by a teacher. Without the teachers, some of us would not be where we are today. Teachers play important roles in the lives of their pupils and students. Looking back at the influence of some of my teachers, I understand the role they played in molding me to become who I am today.
At first I never really appreciated the impact of teachers until I became one. It was during my one-year compulsory youth service program that I fell in love with the profession. I was posted to a secondary school in the community where farming is their main occupation. The first I got to the school I wasn't excited because I didn't like the environment. But after my first class, I was eager to return the next day. The students saw me as a role model and asked me questions about the university and how I was able to navigate through the university. At that moment, I realized teaching is more than just writing notes and marking notes, tests, and examinations. It was more about imparting knowledge and also guiding the children to become useful members of society.
I began to see some students trying to act like me and dress the way I dressed. Then I understood the influence I had on them. Some would come to me for advice, and they even trusted me with information that even their parents were not aware of. My students saw me as their father. Then I realized that teaching goes beyond the four walls of the classroom. I had to work on my character; I had to discipline myself so I could be the good role model my students were looking for. This kept me on my toes and I realized that I also gained a lot from my interactions with my students.
Teachers are a gift from God and should be appreciated. I see people look down on teachers; it is not their fault. If they knew the amount of work and energy teachers put into training their students, they would appreciate them. Have you ever wondered how teachers can coordinate their pupils, especially young children? Parents spend a few hours with their kids at home, and they are tired. So imagine one person having to deal with 10 kids alone then you should know that it is not easy.
Teachers should be motivated. A conducive working environment is very important if a teacher is to maximize his or her full potential. Some schools are not conducive for learning, but you see teachers still doing their job with utmost dedication. The welfare of teachers should be looked at. Teachers should have a good welfare package that would be able to take care of their wants and needs. A happy teacher would be able to deliver his or her lesson effectively. The financial security of teachers should be guaranteed.
Teachers are nation-builders and should be treated with love, kindness, and respect.