Why in News?
India celebrates Teachers’ Day on 5 September every year to appreciate teachers and their contribution to education and society. The day also marks the birth anniversary of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, a renowned philosopher, educationist, scholar and former President of India.
Why Is Teachers’ Day Celebrated on 5 September?
- Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan was born on 5 September 1888.
- When his students and friends wanted to celebrate his birthday, he suggested that the day should instead be dedicated to teachers across the country.
- Since then, 5 September has been observed as Teachers’ Day in India, beginning in 1962.
About Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan
- He was a well-known philosopher, educationist, scholar and statesman.
- He served as India’s first Vice-President from 1952 to 1962.
- He was the second President of India from 1962 to 1967.
- He believed that education was essential for the progress of the country and that teachers had an important role in shaping society.
- He received the Bharat Ratna in 1954 for his contribution to the nation.
Why Is Teachers’ Day Important?
Teachers do much more than teach subjects. They help students develop knowledge, values and confidence and prepare them to become responsible members of society.
Teachers’ Day is an opportunity to:
- Appreciate the work of teachers.
- Recognise their role in shaping young minds.
- Highlight the importance of education in nation-building.
- Encourage greater respect for the teaching profession.
India’s Teachers’ Day and World Teachers’ Day
- India celebrates Teachers’ Day on 5 September in memory of Dr. Radhakrishnan.
- At the international level, World Teachers’ Day is observed on 5 October. UNESCO began observing the day in 1994 to recognise teachers and highlight issues concerning the teaching profession.
- The date marks the anniversary of the 1966 UNESCO/ILO Recommendation concerning the Status of Teachers.
