Teacher’s Day 2023, Theme, History, Speech and Significance

Teachers’ Day, also known as Shikshak Divas, is an annual celebration observed on the 5th of September in India. This special day is dedicated to honouring and commemorating the birth anniversary of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, an eminent figure in Indian history. Dr. Radhakrishnan held several prestigious positions, including being the nation’s first Vice President and later, the President. He was not only a renowned scholar and philosopher but also a recipient of the esteemed Bharat Ratna Award. His birthdate, September 5th, 1888, is the reason why this date was chosen to pay tribute to the invaluable contributions of teachers in India.

Why is Teachers’ Day celebrated on September 5?

In 1963 when Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan assumed office as the second President of India, students approached him to seek permission to celebrate 5th September as Teacher Day. He instead, requested them to observe September 5 as Teachers’ Day to acknowledge the invaluable contribution of teachers to society. Dr. Radhakrishnan once stated that “teachers should be the best minds in the country.”

Since then, September 5 has become a day of celebration as Teachers’ Day in schools, colleges, universities, and educational institutions. Students eagerly participate in various activities like performances, dances, and elaborate shows to express their heartfelt gratitude and admiration for their beloved teachers.

Even for those who have long graduated from school or college, Teachers’ Day remains a wonderful opportunity to express their deep appreciation to their mentors and acknowledge the profound influence that teachers have had on their lives. Teachers are the bedrock of quality education and often take great pride in the success of their students.

Teachers’ Day 2023 Theme

The theme for Teacher’s Day 2023 is “Teachers at the Heart of Education Recovery”.

History of Teacher’s Day

The history of Teachers’ Day in India is rooted in Dr. Sarvapalli Radhakrishnan’s tenure as the second President of India in 1962. At that time, his former students approached him with a request to celebrate September 5 in a special manner. However, rather than agreeing to this request, Dr. Radhakrishnan proposed that September 5 be observed as Teachers’ Day, dedicated to recognizing and appreciating the invaluable contributions of educators to society. He firmly believed that “teachers should be the best minds in the country.”

On the global stage, World Teachers’ Day is celebrated on October 5th. This international initiative is led by prestigious organizations such as:-

• UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization)
•  UNICEF (United Nations Children’s Fund)
• ILO (International Labour Organization)
• Education International

The significance of this day lies in its commemoration of the adoption of the 1966 ILO/UNESCO recommendation.

This recommendation primarily emphasizes the establishment of fundamental principles pertaining to the rights and responsibilities of teachers, standards for their initial training and continuous education, guidelines for teacher recruitment, employment conditions, and the enhancement of the quality of teaching and learning environments. It serves as a global platform to acknowledge and support the pivotal role teachers play in shaping the future.

World Teachers’ Day

World Teachers’ Day, also known as International Teachers’ Day, falls on October 5 each year. It’s a time to celebrate, appreciate, and pay tribute to the dedicated educators who shape our future. It is marked by gatherings, conferences, and discussions to address challenges faced by teachers locally and globally, seeking solutions to enhance their profession.

Teacher’s Day and S Radhakrishnan

• Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, often referred to as S. Radhakrishnan, was an eminent Indian scholar, philosopher, and statesman who made significant contributions to the fields of education and diplomacy.
• He was born on September 5, 1888, in Tiruttani, India, and went on to become one of the most distinguished figures in Indian history. Dr Radhakrishnan served as the second President of India and was a recipient of the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honour.
• However, his legacy extends far beyond his political career, as he was also a renowned philosopher and educator who advocated for the importance of teachers and education in society.
• His birthdate is now celebrated as Teachers’ Day in India, a day dedicated to honoring the invaluable role of educators. Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan’s life and work continue to inspire and influence generations, both in India and around the world.

Teacher’s Day 2023 Speech

“Teachers are the steadfast pillars of our lives, dedicating their time and effort to enrich our existence and propel us forward. They are not only purveyors of knowledge but also nurturing guides on our journey to becoming good, compassionate human beings.”

“Teachers are the architects of our society, and their role transcends that of parents. While parents give birth to a child, it is the teacher who sculpts their character and lays the foundation for a promising future. Thus, regardless of our age or station in life, we must always hold our teachers in the highest regard and never forget their profound influence on our lives.”

Significance and Celebration of Teacher’s Day 2023

On the 5th of September, Teacher’s Day is a cherished celebration that permeates schools, colleges, universities, and educational institutions. Students actively participate in a spectrum of activities, including performances, dances, and elaborate presentations, all designed to convey their heartfelt appreciation for the teachers who have left an indelible mark on their lives.

Beyond the confines of educational institutions, Teacher’s Day presents a wonderful occasion for those who have moved past their school and college years to express their deep gratitude to their mentors. It’s a moment to recognize and honor the profound impact that teachers have had on their personal and intellectual growth. Teachers form the bedrock of quality education and often take immense pride in the achievements and successes of their students. This day serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring influence of educators in shaping the future of individuals and society as a whole.

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