A day to reflect on the role of teachers

In our fast-moving journey of life, we often forget to express our gratitude and appreciation to teachers. Looking back, I'm confident that each of us can recall a teacher who had a profound influence on us, guiding us towards a path of strength and knowledge.

A teacher enjoys a crucial position in society and commands a significant amount of respect. As such, February 24 is not just a date on the calendar for Oman, but it holds profound significance for Omani society. The day is a national occasion to recognise and appreciate the teachers’ role in nurturing minds and moulding responsible Omani citizens.

While Unesco celebrates World Teachers' Day on October 5 every year to pay tribute to the accomplishments of teachers, many countries observe this special day on different dates. Like the Sultanate of Oman, each country has its own historical or cultural significance attached to Teacher’s Day.

Teachers devote their lives to helping students, which is an honourable act by itself. Teachers are a blessing as they embody selflessness, kindness and compassion to illuminate knowledge for the betterment of their students.

The Ministry of Education’s celebrations of Teacher's Day, that too, with a holiday, reflect its high appreciation and confirm that teaching is not just a job, but rather a noble profession. It is a calling. Teachers encourage, lead, teach and guide children, leaving lasting marks on every child’s life.

Since the beginning of the Omani Renaissance, the Omani leadership realised the importance of education in leading the comprehensive development of the country. As a result, the government directed its plans towards education, making it accessible to all.

The current stage of the country’s development means that the government’s new priority is to improve the quality of education. Represented by its Education Ministry, the government employs best practices to ensure the sustainability of education and building a stronger and more flexible educational system to serve students.

In this context, it is important for teachers to achieve sustainable development goals related to ensuring quality education and promoting equal learning opportunities for all by 2030. It also means that teachers play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the new generation.

Oman Vision 2040 emphasises that teachers should encourage critical thinking, creativity and problem-solving skills in classrooms so that a culture of curiosity and independent learning in students can be created to prepare them throughout their lives. They have a significant role in transforming those dreams into tangible realities.

True, beyond classroom walls, teachers are an exceptional asset to our society, and we must value their hard work and dedication. By moulding young minds and instilling essential values, teachers contribute to developing well-rounded citizens equipped to navigate societal challenges.

Therefore, dear teachers, continue your noble profession with confidence and determination. You are the torch that lights the path of generations, and you are the foundation upon which future visions are founded.

Although the road ahead is full of challenges, with your dedication and passion for education, the Sultanate of Oman can overcome them all and build a bright future for its coming generation. Oman’s wise leadership stands by you and appreciates every step you take towards achieving this noble goal.

This trust is evident from what Dr Madeeha bint Ahmed al Shaibaniyah, Minister of Education, said at a seminar a couple of years ago: “The responsibility placed on all of us is great, and the trust is immense. We are certain that you are worthy of bearing it and capable of performing it, exerting your utmost effort to advance the sons of your country and raise its status and progress.”