Imagine a world without teachers—who would guide our children, help them realize their dreams, and shape the leaders of tomorrow? In India, Teacher’s Day, celebrated annually on September 5th, is a heartfelt tribute to these vital figures in our society. Established in 1962, this tradition continues to thrive, emphasizing the profound impact teachers have on the lives of their students.
Caritas India’s Surokhit Shaishav – Promoting Safe Childhood Phase II program recently celebrated Teacher’s Day across various locations in West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh and Assam. This initiative, dedicated to ensuring the safety, education, and empowerment of children, honors teachers for their unwavering commitment and the transformative roles they play in shaping young minds.

In Uttar Pradesh, Caritas India’s partner, Purvanchal Gramin Seva Samiti (PGSS), organized vibrant celebrations in villages such as Shetalpur Khesaraha, Matar, Bahuar, Jara, and Chandithan Mithoura. Community members, child leaders, and local stakeholders came together to recognize the essential role of education and to express their gratitude to teachers for their relentless service to the nation.

The celebrations featured heartfelt gestures from students, including flower offerings to their teachers at the Pre-Primary School in Bahuar. The joy of the occasion was amplified by a cake-cutting ceremony, where child leaders presented gifts as tokens of love and appreciation for their teachers’ hard work. As Miss Laxmi, a Class X student, eloquently expressed, “Since our first day of school to the tough years of high school, our teachers have been there to support us and motivate us. They teach us to read, write, and do math, making every day exciting.”

Professor Shri Brijesh Kumar Singh from Upper Primary High School and Principal Shri Balwant Singh attended the celebrations, extending their thanks to the students and praising their heartfelt accolades. The camaraderie among the 72 children and 60 representatives from women and youth groups created lasting memories, reaffirming the importance of education and honoring the dedication of teachers who devote their lives to nurturing future generations.

In the remote tea gardens of Kalian district, Assam, students from Kurkuri Lower Primary School and Craigpark LP School showcased their respect and gratitude through a captivating cultural program filled with traditional dances and songs. These performances highlighted the crucial role teachers play in shaping accountable citizens and compassionate human beings. Little Miss Priya Karmakar, a Class II student from Craigpark LP School, recited a touching poem, captivating the audience and celebrating the selfless commitment of teachers.

At Karimganj district, students celebrated Teacher’s Day by cutting cakes and honoring their teachers with traditional Assamese gamosas and flowers. These gestures of appreciation reflect the deep-rooted Indian tradition of Guru-Shishya Parampara, where teachers are revered not just as educators but as mentors who guide students in character building and knowledge acquisition.
The Surokhit Shaishav program stands as a testament to the vital role teachers play in our society. They are not merely instructors; they are mentors, believers, and confidants, sculpting the thinkers and leaders of tomorrow. Caritas India proudly celebrates and acknowledges their legacy and the profound impact they have on education.

As Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Malala Yousafzai wisely stated, “One child, one teacher, one pen, and one book can change the world.” The Surokhit Shaishav program embodies this sentiment, striving to create a safer, more equitable future for children while honoring the invaluable contributions of teachers. Through awareness and respect, we can continue to elevate the status of educators and ensure that every child has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive.