For those who may be unaware, Wednesday, October 5th is World Teachers’ Day. Since 1994, this holiday has been observed globally to raise awareness not only for current teachers but also to bring awareness to those areas of the world where teachers are scarce. It was officially established by UNESCO, or the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization.
What is World Teachers’ Day?
World Teachers’ Day is an international holiday that focuses special attention on teachers and all that they do for our children. This event is also meant to bring the public’s attention on the everlasting importance and continual need for good teachers not only in this country but around the world.
The date was chosen because it was commemorative of the international convention held in Paris in 1966, which resulted in the adoption of the Statute of Teachers. This statute set forth rights and responsibilities of teachers, much like doctors and lawyers have their own set of rights and responsibilities. In addition, this statute also put in place international standards for teachers’ preparation, education, recruitment, employments, and their teaching conditions.
Why is World Teachers’ Day Significant?
Giving special recognition to teachers is another step on the way to raising public awareness about the world’s need for great educators. With the increasing world population size, UNESCO estimates that by the year 2020, a total of 10.9 million additional teachers would need to be recruited in order to give every child in the world a primary education, as compared with the additional 2.7 million that would be needed today.
This estimate becomes even more problematic when you consider that the number of college students graduating with a degree in Education is on the decline. According to one study, the percentage of students graduating with a degree in Education in 1970 was 22%. In 2011, it dropped to just 6%.
Despite being one of the more important professions with regards to preparing our future generations, a career in education can often be a thankless one. It’s also undervalued by most institutions on the state and federal level. For that reason, it’s important to show our appreciation for teachers when we can.
The Impact of World Teachers’ Day
We all have at least one teacher that we remember from school who went above and beyond. We remember them because they were kind, or passionate, or patient. Everyone has a fond memory from school where that particular teacher did something to let us know he or she truly cared. It’s those teachers that make education a positive and encouraging experience.
Unfortunately, there are many children in the world who will never have that experience. According to the UN, 59 million children in the world are currently not receiving an education. A quality education is essential for the successful future of society as well as the child’s future.
World Teachers’ Day highlights the contributions of those individuals who help to make the world a better place through education. It is also an opportunity to let our teachers know how much we appreciate them and what they’ve done for us, let alone what they’re doing for our children. Let’s make sure we stop and take the time to say thanks.
Home Away From Home Academy takes pride in the knowledge, skill, and effort our teachers possess. They are responsive to the intellectual, emotional, social, and physical needs of your child. This allows them to create an atmosphere that fosters creativity and individuality. View more information about our programs on our website, or contact us today with any questions!