Teaching has long been regarded as a noble profession—one that shapes not just the careers, but the very character of future generations. To honour the invaluable contributions of teachers to education and society, Teachers’ Day is celebrated across the world on different dates.
In India, Teachers’ Day is observed every year on 5th September, commemorating the birth anniversary of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, an eminent teacher, philosopher, and former President of India. Globally, World Teachers’ Day is celebrated on 5th October, a date proclaimed by UNESCO in 1994 to mark the adoption of the 1966 ILO/UNESCO Recommendation concerning the Status of Teachers—a landmark document that set international standards for teachers’ rights, responsibilities, professional development, and working conditions.
Each year, Teachers’ Day celebrations are anchored around themes that mirror the evolving challenges and aspirations of education. In 2025, India’s theme is “Inspiring the Next Generation of Learners,” emphasizing the vital role of teachers in motivating students to think critically, act creatively, and prepare for the demands of modern life. Ironically, while teachers are celebrated as nation-builders, their own woes remain unaddressed—ranging from pay disparities compared to other sectors to unequal treatment even between Central and state government teachers. The question lingers: why are the torchbearers of learning still treated unfairly?
The global theme for World Teachers’ Day 2025—“Recasting Teaching as a Collaborative Process”—signals a shift from the idea of teaching as a solitary pursuit. In today’s interconnected world, meaningful education requires collaboration among teachers, policymakers, parents, and communities. Such a collective approach is expected to strengthen support systems, enrich professional identity, and ultimately improve educational outcomes.
To mark the occasion, UNESCO, ILO, UNICEF, and Education International will convene discussions, workshops, and activities on topics such as mentoring, co-teaching, and communities of practice—tools essential for achieving professional excellence and ensuring education remains future-ready.
Yet, while the ideals are noble, the ground realities often tell a different story. Challenges such as limited employment opportunities, strained teacher-student relationships, and rising commercialisation of education continue to burden the system. For first-generation learners and students from economically weaker backgrounds, education often feels like an uphill battle, worsened by the mushrooming of profit-driven institutions.
Another critical obstacle is the lack of teamwork among educators—often eroded by ego clashes or professional jealousy. A single conflict, like a pinch of salt spoiling a gallon of milk, can undo collective progress. It becomes imperative, therefore, for educational institutions to foster environments that nurture teamwork, collaboration, and mutual respect among teachers.
Teachers also grapple with low salaries, excessive non-teaching duties, and the constant pressure of syllabus completion. These factors diminish their ability to mentor students effectively or update their own skills. Unless these systemic issues are addressed with urgency, teaching will fail to attract and retain the best talent. In turn, students will struggle to meet the rigours of global competition.
For education to truly serve its purpose, teachers must be empowered with resources, recognition, and respect. They should be able to act as facilitators, motivators, and mentors—roles that extend beyond classrooms into shaping society itself.
As we celebrate World Teachers’ Day 2025, let us remember that slogans and themes alone cannot transform education. Real change requires commitment from all stakeholders—governments, institutions, parents, and communities—to uplift the teaching profession. Only then can teachers inspire learners, foster creativity, and prepare society for the challenges of tomorrow.
Here’s hoping that this Teachers’ Day brings renewed hope, dignity, and happiness to teachers, parents, students, and society at large.
