The day for teachers

Teachers are an integral part of your life. You may not like all your teachers, but the fact that they play a leading role in moulding you and your future cannot be denied. The role of teachers in society will be commemorated and honoured today (October 5), when World Teachers’ Day, spearheaded by the United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO), is observed.

On this day, teachers get involved in various activities such as attending public meetings, and meeting and lobbying political leaders to draw attention to their role in society. The day provides the opportunity to draw public attention to the important role of teachers within society. Held annually since 1994, the day commemorates teachers’ organisations worldwide. Its aim is to mobilise support for teachers and to ensure that the needs of future generations will continue to be met by teachers.

According to UNESCO, World Teachers’ Day represents a significant token of the awareness, understanding and appreciation displayed for the vital contribution that teachers make to education and development. It was inaugurated in 1994 to commemorate the signing of the UNESCO/ILO (International Labour Organisation) Recommendation Concerning the Status of Teachers on October 5, 1966. Now the event is commemorated in over 100 countries.