Wishing the IAEPT family ‘A Very Happy Teachers’ Day’ !

- Prof. Madhavi, President of IAEPT

"Instead of celebrating my birthday, it would be my proud privilege if September 5th is observed as Teachers' Day."- These are the words of Dr Sarvepally Radhakrishnan, the former President of India and above all a great teacher not just by profession. He was also a philosopher and an advocate of education as a means to bring people together and foster understanding.

Dr Sarvepally Radhakrishnan’s words remain a powerful reminder to all of us, showing the value of teachers in the society. To ponder about our power gives us immense confidence about what we can ‘do’ to the community.

As teachers, we have always been students to know and know more so that we can impart this knowledge and blend it to enrich our instruction. The recent times have become all the more challenging and exciting, a time which prompts us to travel beyond the chalk-piece and blackboard. We are witnessing the blend of instruction and technology to transform learning into an experience. This methodology of ‘experiential learning’ through digital means, comes with a promise of bridging the learning gaps better. This, in turn, helps us achieve the intended learning objectives and reach the desired learning outcomes.

Now is the time for all of us to readjust our sails to continue our enriching journey. The essence remains though - that of imparting knowledge to students and to be a seeker forever. So, its all the more important for us to realize the significance of ‘seeking’, that is ‘staying updated’ by ‘upskilling’ ourselves. We have to understand the significance of ‘relearning’ and ‘unlearning’ to stay connected and continue in our professions. The advent of AI in all is avatars should only stir the curiosity in us to rekindle our vision and mission as teachers.

In this process of knowledge-seeking, we have to reiterate to ourselves what we tell our students that, ‘it is not just the knowledge factor but also an ‘attitude’ of a readiness to accept and change’ that contribute to meaningful growth for both; the teacher and the taught. Innovation has always played a significant role in our teaching and now Technology is offering better ways for us to excel. Through continuous innovation, Technology challenges us to think creatively and find new solutions to old problems, ensuring that we remain competitive and forward-thinking in a rapidly changing environment. At the same time, we move forward by holding the torch of empathy and humanity and never lose the human touch. Technology is only a tool but when used by a ‘humane’ hand, it can help us reach the zenith.

As ‘teacher-learners’, let’s invite change, thus exemplifying dynamism by continually adapting ourselves to new methods and approaches to meet the diverse needs of students. By making a lasting mark on our students, we all profoundly affect lives by inspiring growth, curiosity, and a lifelong love for learning.

Whenever….

There is a fear

And a tear

You are there…

Teacher

Shaping clay

A sculptor

Training to focus

An archer

Refining our pictures

An artist

Sharpening our minds

And safeguarding our hearts

A poet

Showing Science

That supports life

A scientist

Guiding us

Now and forever

A mentor

Always …

‘TheTeacher’

Dedicated to all our teachers!