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The invaluable role of teachers: Beyond monetary measures and political pursuits

A teacher's worth, far from being limited to material accumulations, transcends into realms of societal influence, character development, and moral uprightness, becoming an epitome of change and progress.

teacher-sir-guru- volunteer teachers
Representational graphic.

Teaching, a profession often unceremoniously relegated to the backseat in the race for material gains, stands as a beacon of enlightenment, silently moulding the leaders, innovators, and changemakers of tomorrow. Its practitioners, the dedicated and passionate teachers, are not seen on the front lines, vying for the limelight. Instead, they choose to work behind the scenes, in the realm of the mind, shaping thoughts, guiding ideas, and nurturing intellects.

A teacher’s worth, far from being limited to material accumulations, transcends into realms of societal influence, character development, and moral uprightness, becoming an epitome of change and progress. They stand as lighthouses of knowledge, silently shaping future generations.

This influential role is not restricted to the four walls of a classroom, but pervades every aspect of a student’s life, from academic pursuits to life skills, attitudes, and worldviews.

Teachers are indeed torchbearers of knowledge and guidance for society. Their pursuit should not be driven by the desire for economic gain or political power but by an innate thirst for knowledge and a commitment to guiding future generations. As role models, they hold a significant position, not just in the lives of their students, but also as influential figures in society, including among professionals.

Teacher for invaluable guidance

teaching pedagogy
Representational image. Photo: Pexels/ Tima Miroshnichenko

The teacher-student relationship is built on a foundation of trust, respect, and admiration. Often, children heed the words of their teachers with more diligence and reverence than those of their parents or guardians. This respect is universal, an unwritten code transcending barriers of status and power. This position of influence often leads society to look towards teachers when initiatives require leadership.

Their moral uprightness, knowledge, and understanding of the societal fabric make them ideal candidates for such roles. However, the intention behind accepting such roles should be centred around the welfare of society and not as a means to gain political power.

Participation in teacher associations and similar organisations is a commendable act, offering avenues for collective decision-making, mutual support, and professional development. Yet, the purpose of such involvement should not be to quench a thirst for political power. As soon as teachers start exploiting these platforms for personal advancement, the essence of the teaching profession begins to blur.

When a teacher diverges from their path and starts chasing political power and economic incentives, the ripple effects are felt throughout society. It’s not just that one teacher who strays from their noble path, but it also leads to systemic disorientation as society loses its reliable guide. This corruption, therefore, is not a single individual’s fall from grace but a societal tragedy.

Custodians of society

graphical representation of school in kathmandu schools
Illustration for representation only

Teachers are the custodians of society’s intellectual and ethical inheritance. They pass down knowledge, foster wisdom, and instil virtues. Their role is to build characters, not bank balances; to nurture intellects, not to hoard power. Their influence is intended to be educational, not political. The profession of teaching thrives on this fundamental difference from other sectors of society.

Therefore, teaching is a profession that extends beyond monetary considerations and political pursuits. The wealth of a teacher lies in their profound and enduring influence on students. They mould minds, build characters, and shape futures. The true measure of a teacher’s value is not the size of their paycheck or political influence, but the magnitude of the impact they make on their students and society.

The value of teachers transcends monetary evaluation and political aspirations. They carry the unique privilege of shaping minds, influencing the future, and instilling moral and ethical values in students. As one ventures into the future, the role of teachers will only grow in importance, cementing their position as indispensable pillars of society and stewards of our collective future.

Teachers are the weavers of the social fabric, stitching together diverse threads of thoughts, ideas, and aspirations, creating a vibrant tapestry of society. Their true wealth lies in the eyes of a student who finally grasps a difficult concept, the smile of a child who feels seen and heard, the gratitude of parents for shaping their child’s future, and the respect of society for their selfless service.

In conclusion, the teaching profession’s essence lies in nurturing minds, shaping futures, and steering society towards progress and enlightenment. Teachers, being the guiding lights they are, should be aware of the vast potential of their influence and the profound responsibility that accompanies it.

They should remember that their true wealth lies not in material gains but in the hearts they touch, the minds they inspire, and the society they help shape. The respect and reverence they command in society is a testament to their immeasurable contributions.

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Lama is a research scholar. His insightful work, particularly his motivational pieces, challenge the reader's perspective and stimulate fresh thinking. For correspondence, he can be contacted at [email protected].

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