The saying that opening one school for children allows for the closure of a 100 prisons is one that has long existed in our country; it underscores the value of education. The teacher plays a vital role in education — a role that is truly unique and remains consistent across nations. Across the globe, the singular objective of teachers is to foster the development of their students in both character and wisdom.
The United Nations has designated 5 October (yesterday) as the World Teachers' Day. Much like children in other countries around the world, children in our country also attach great importance to this occasion; various programs are often conducted across the country during this week.
Every year, students across the globe celebrate their teachers with great pride on Teachers' Day. However, this year (2026) marks a special milestone: the 60th anniversary of the historic International Labour Organisation (ILO) / United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) recommendation adopted in 1966. It is a key international standard-setting document that defines the rights, responsibilities, and professional working conditions of educators worldwide. Accordingly, on 5 October 1966, in Paris, France, the UNESCO and the ILO jointly adopted a special set of regulations regarding the status of teachers. This was prompted by the unfortunate situation that existed at the time in many countries regarding the service conditions, salary structures, professional rights, and facilities afforded to teachers — who fulfill a uniquely intellectual and ethical role in society. The path to establishing that Teachers' Day was paved with the aim of rectifying this situation. It became a reality because the UNESCO declared 5 October as the official World Teachers' Day in 1994.
While Western society celebrates the Teachers' Day in the manner seen today, the teacher has held a unique and revered status throughout the history of Eastern societies. In Eastern civilisation, in particular, the teacher bore a noble responsibility. This status was especially significant in ancient traditions such as Buddhism, Brahmanism, and Hinduism. In the *Singalovada Sutta*, the Buddha provided a clear and comprehensive explanation regarding the mutual duties and responsibilities that should exist between a teacher and a student. Accordingly, holding the position of a teacher is in itself a mark of distinction, and the role that a teacher performs is equally noble. Although the excellent, teacher-centred education system of the past has evolved over time, its fundamental essence remains unchanged. However, as nations across the globe advance toward diverse economic and developmental milestones, the professional nature of the teaching role has undergone significant transformations and innovations.
Consequently, there is now a need to examine the teaching profession from a scientific perspective. Technological advancements have made the teacher's role increasingly challenging in the modern era; teachers can no longer simply proceed in the conventional, natural manner. The scope of the teaching role has expanded into several new areas. Comprehensive studies on this subject are particularly essential, especially in developing countries. It must be emphasised that for children advancing rapidly alongside technology, it is crucial to impart an understanding that goes beyond mere knowledge — encompassing spiritual and human values, social dynamics, international awareness, global influences, environmental changes, the arts, and the essence of humanity. The teacher must provide strong support for the transition towards a noble society free from mutual violence.
The writer is a freelance contributor
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The views and opinions expressed in this column are those of the writer, and do not necessarily reflect those of this publication