Sometimes, a teacher can change a student’s life with a few words of encouragement. A child who is struggling or lacks confidence may hear, “You can do it,” and remember those words for years. Behind many successful individuals is a teacher who recognised their potential and helped them believe in themselves.
World Teachers’ Day, observed on October 5, should therefore be more than a day of ceremonies and greetings. It is an opportunity to recognise the contribution of teachers, understand the challenges they face and consider the support they need to fulfil their responsibilities effectively.
The global shortage of teachers makes this issue particularly important. UNESCO estimates that 44 million additional teachers will be needed by 2030 to achieve universal primary and secondary education. Expanding education, therefore, requires more than schools, textbooks and technology. Qualified and adequately supported teachers remain at the heart of effective education.
A classroom may have computers, laboratories, internet access and modern learning materials, but these resources cannot replace a teacher. Teachers explain complex ideas, identify students’ weaknesses, correct mistakes and encourage independent thinking. They also help students develop discipline, confidence, responsibility and respect for others.
Islam places great emphasis on knowledge and learning. The Quran asks, “Are those who know equal to those who do not know?” (Surah Al-Zumar 39:9). The first revelation also begins with the command “Iqra” — read. The Islamic tradition has consequently accorded learning and teaching a position of great respect. The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) taught with patience and understanding, listened to questions and guided people according to their circumstances. A hadith recorded in Sahih al-Bukhari states that the best among people are those who learn the Quran and teach it to others (Hadith 5027).
Pakistan, however, continues to face serious educational challenges. According to the Pakistan Institute of Education’s (PIE) Education Public Financing Report 2025-26, around 25 million children remain out of school. Limited financing, inadequate access and governance challenges continue to affect the education system. Teachers in many rural and underserved areas also work with insufficient facilities and teaching materials.
Multigrade classrooms, inadequate resources, limited professional development and employment insecurity can further increase the pressures on teachers. They are sometimes assigned duties outside the classroom, including election work, census activities and public campaigns. While some of these responsibilities may be necessary, excessive non-teaching duties can reduce the time teachers have for their students.
Teachers therefore need more than public appreciation. Timely salaries, job security, professional training, adequate staffing and safe working conditions should be regarded as essential components of education policy.
Technology has also transformed education. Students can access vast amounts of information through smartphones and the internet, while artificial intelligence can provide answers within seconds. Yet students still need teachers to help them understand, question and verify information. Teaching young people to distinguish reliable sources from misinformation is becoming increasingly important.
Parents, too, have a vital role. Teachers and parents should work as partners and resolve disagreements through communication rather than undermining teachers before students.
Pakistan cannot strengthen its education system without improving the conditions in which teachers work. World Teachers’ Day should therefore go beyond speeches and flowers. It should encourage sustained attention to teachers’ salaries, training, workload, security and professional standing. Respect for teachers is demonstrated not by what we say about them on one day, but by how we support their profession throughout the year.
Note: The writer is a freelance columnist based in Lahore, can be reached at rashid.vapk@gmail.com.
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