By Sadia Yaqub

"It is the supreme art of the teacher to awaken joy in creative expression and knowledge" Albert Einstein.

Teaching is a divine profession, which comes with a responsibility to not only enlighten but also uplift a generation. Teachers are like guardians who raise and guide their students. They are the one who helps them grow and become a responsible part of society.

A good teacher not only helps their students in succeeding academically but also nurtures their personal growth by inspiring them to reach their full potential, instilling in them values that lasts forever.

Every year, on 5^th October, ‘World Teacher's Day is celebrated to honor and appreciate the tireless work of educators around the world. This day recognizes the crucial role that a teacher plays in shaping not only a student but the society as a whole. Through the guidance and support of a teacher, students learn not only their subjects but also values like generosity, teamwork, and empathy.

Consider the example of Anne Sullivan, the teacher of Helen Keller. She being a dedicated teacher focused on her intellectual as well as moral development, helping her over come the challenges of being blind and deaf. This demonstrated the life changing impact a dedicated teacher can have.

Teachers inspire innovation, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. By shaping minds and fostering a sense of social responsibility, teachers lay the foundation for a more informed, productive and just world.

Despite their dedication, teachers face many challenges that are overlooked. One of the primary issues is low salary. According to

UNESCO, many teachers especially in developing countries are paid below the national average income, making it difficult for them to meet their basic needs. In addition to financial strain, teachers are often burdened with excessive workloads, including grading assignments and preparing lessons after school hours. The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) reports that teachers work an average of 50 hours a week, much of which goes unpaid.

Furthermore teachers face disrespectful behavior from students, parents, and even colleagues. In some cases, parents undermine teacher’s authority by questioning their methods, while students may display disruptive and disrespectful attitudes in class.

A 2019 survey in the U.S. found that 20% of teachers experience verbal abuse from students. These challenges contribute to teacher burnout, making the profession increasingly difficult to sustain.

Teacher’s day reminds us of the need to address these problems and ensure that teachers have the tools and support they deserve. To help teachers overcome these problems we must take a multifaceted approach that involves support from parents, communities and policy makers. Increasing teacher's salaries and providing better benefits is essential to recognize their hard work.

Additionally, reducing class size can alleviate the excessive workloads, and teachers can pay more attention to their students. Appreciation is equally important in fostering a positive teaching environment. Simple gestures, such as thank you notes from students and parents, can have a profound impact on teacher's morale. Schools can organize events for teachers. Offering professional development opportunities allows teachers to grow and learn new skills, showing that we value their continuous improvement.

Teachers are not just educators; they are mentors, role models, and guides who help build the future. Their dedication to shaping young minds is invaluable, and they deserve our utmost respect and appreciation. As we celebrate this day, let's take the time to acknowledge and thank the teachers who have made a difference in our lives and continue to make a difference every day