Opinion | Teachers Day Special : Teacher Parent Relation and the Child

Teachers Day is celebrated every year on 5th September in India to honour the birth anniversary of Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan who was a great teacher, philosopher and the second President of India. When his students once requested to celebrate his birthday, he humbly suggested that instead of celebrating him, the day should be dedicated to all teachers who shape the future of young minds. Since then, Teachers Day has become an occasion to express gratitude to our mentors and to recognize their selfless service in guiding students not only in academics but also in life.

On this Teachers Day it is important to reflect on one of the most essential pillars of education which is the relationship between teachers, parents and the child. The recent initiative of conducting large scale Parent Teacher Meets across Jammu and Kashmir with the active participation of public representatives, Directors, Joint Directors, Chief Education Officers and Zonal Education Officers has been widely appreciated in society. What made these gatherings unique was the guiding slogan “Child is our Priority”. The relationship between teachers and parents revolves around this noble goal. The encouraging level of participation is a positive sign but these meets should not be treated as a formality. Teachers and parents must cooperate with sincerity and always keep the welfare of the student at the centre. At times these meetings unfortunately turn into a blame game which kills the very spirit of the exercise. As parents we are bound to look into the daily needs of the child because the child spends most of the time at home. Neglecting these needs will never bring good results. Teachers on the other hand must act as role models because every action of a teacher has a direct impact on the personality of a student. A teacher’s influence is often lifelong and shapes a child’s thinking discipline and values. Parents and society must also provide an environment where the child can explore his talents wisdom and intelligence. Family background plays an important role in moulding a student’s habits and behaviour. Teachers must also remain sensitive to the struggles of children from economically weaker sections understanding that such students may not always be able to contribute in financial matters like books uniforms or fees. First-hand knowledge of a student’s family circumstances is very important for a teacher. Parent Teacher interactions should not be limited only to reporting progress and weaknesses. They must also include practical remedies and guidance to overcome shortcomings. Monthly meetings and yearly mega events should always be result oriented and not just formal gatherings. If we dream of a well governed harmonious and progressive society we must strive to achieve hundred percent literacy enriched with spiritual ethical and moral guidance. Education should never become a commercial enterprise that divides society into classes. It should always be considered as a mission to eradicate ignorance and uplift humanity.

On this day I remember with deep respect and gratitude all my teachers and mentors who shaped my personality and guided me in life

Mr Ab Aziz Wani (Maternal Uncle)

Mr Gh Ahmad Bhat sb (Sogam Lolab)

Mr Mohmad Yousuf Shah sb (Sogam Lolab)

Mr Ab Ahad Ganie sb (Sogam Lolab)

Mr Gh. Rasool Mir sb (Sogam Lolab)

Mr Gh. Ahmad Dar sb (Sogam Lolab)

Mr Mohmad Abdullah Dar sb (Mawer Handwara)

Mr Mohmad Maqbool Shah sb (Drugmulla)

Mr Mohmad Subhan Lone sb (Darpora Lolab)

Mr Gh Ahmad Shah sb (Darpora Lolab)

Mr Gh Ahmad Shah Hamdani sb ( Sogam Lolab)

Mr Gh Qadir Bhat sb (Lalpora Lolab)

Mr Ab Karim Bhat sb (Lalpora Lolab)

Mr Gh Hassan Bhat sb (Lalpora Lolab)

Mr Naseem Udin Shah sb (Lalpora Lolab)

Mr Gh Mohidin Shah sb (Lalpora Lolab)

Mr Mohmad Sadeeq Wani sb (Tekipora Lolab)

Mr S N Baan sb (Srinagar Kashmir)

Mr Trakulinat Pandita sb (Sogam Lolab)

Mr Ab Ahad NFC sb (Srinagar Kashmir)

To each of them I owe a part of who I am today. May their contribution continue to inspire generations to come. Some of these noble teachers may have left this world but their guidance, love and blessings will always remain alive in my heart. May their souls rest in peace.

On this Teachers Day 2025 let us renew our commitment to build a society where every child receives the love of parents the guidance of teachers and the opportunity to shine bright.

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