by Hurmat Altaf
A teacher’s role extends far beyond imparting bookish knowledge. They help develop critical thinking, encouraging students to ponder their existence, surroundings, and the world beyond the classroom.
Paulo Coelho’s quote offers a profound insight: a teacher’s role is not merely to impart knowledge, but to inspire students to reach their full potential and discover their innate abilities.
This perspective resonates deeply, suggesting that every individual is born with the capacity to achieve greatness. Through dedication and perseverance, people can overcome challenges and turn their aspirations into reality. However, guidance is crucial to unlock one’s inner strength. A teacher plays a vital role in identifying and nurturing a student’s weaknesses, empowering them to grow into confident and responsible individuals.
In India and Kashmîr as well, Teachers’ Day is celebrated on September 5th, marking the birthday of Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, a renowned philosopher, scholar, and the country’s second President. When his students and friends sought to commemorate his birthday, Dr Radhakrishnan proposed an alternative: observing the day as Teachers’ Day to honour all educators. The day’s significance lies in paying tribute to teachers who tirelessly work to shape young minds, instilling knowledge, values, and skills that foster growth and development.
History has borne witness to exemplary student-teacher relationships, such as those between Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle. These iconic partnerships offer a unique lens through which to view the student-teacher dynamic as a sacred bond.
Aristotle aptly noted: Those who educate children well are more to be honoured than they who produce them; for these only gave them life, those the art of living well. This quote encapsulates the vital role teachers play in shaping students’ characters.
A teacher’s influence extends far beyond academic pursuits. They serve as role models, guiding students as they forge their own paths and identities. By providing a solid educational foundation, teachers empower students to build a strong base for future growth.
In today’s technology-driven society, teachers face diverse challenges. Students have alternative learning methods, but no matter how advanced technology becomes, a teacher’s role remains irreplaceable. Human emotions cannot be replicated.
Teachers impart knowledge with sensitivity, care, and emotional intelligence, building relationships that machines cannot. This personal touch is essential.
The goal of teaching is to create a better society. As Plato noted: if a man neglects education, he walks lame to the end of his life. Education illuminates our path, helping us discover our purpose and give meaning to our existence. A teacher guides their pupil in this journey, enabling them to contribute to society’s meaningful development and make the world a better place.
A teacher’s role extends far beyond imparting bookish knowledge. They help develop critical thinking, encouraging students to ponder their existence, surroundings, and the world beyond the classroom.
Teachers serve as a guiding force, supporting students when they doubt their abilities. A good teacher celebrates their students’ striving for excellence.
The movie Taare Zameen Par illustrates the profound impact a compassionate teacher can have on a child’s life. Ram Shankar Nikumbh, portrayed by Aamir Khan, exemplifies this role. He recognises his student Ishaan’s unique struggles with dyslexia and, rather than dismissing him, nurtures Ishaan’s talents and helps him regain confidence.
This story displays how a teacher’s belief in a student’s potential can transform their life, enabling them to overcome obstacles and flourish in their own way.
In our lives, there is often a teacher who holds a special place in our hearts. Personally, my professor had a profound impact on me, helping me understand the essence of life and existence. He taught me to embrace life, no matter its challenges.
He once shared a remarkable insight that has stayed with me: One must hope against hope, for ultimately, you will be guided to where you belong. The divine force will lead you to your destination. Struggle is essential, and being in a place that tests you is meant to make you stronger. What breaks you also makes you. Accept and move on.
In conclusion, I extend my heartfelt wishes to all the teachers who work tirelessly, guiding us from uncertainty to our full potential.
(The author is currently pursuing a Master of Arts degree in English Literature at the University of Kashmir. Ideas are personal.)
