The important role that teachers play in every individual’s life is oftentimes underplayed. It is not often that we recognise the good and hard work that teachers do, but in reality, the teaching profession is amongst the most important professions in the world. Each one of us has passed through the hands of an educator, be it presidents, doctors, nurses, engineers, all the way to labourers and shop assistants. Had it not been for teachers, many people would not be holding the positions they are holding today and for that, teachers deserve better recognition and a huge round of applause. While some topics may be sensitive, we do have to address them and give credit where it's due.
Educators, especially at the pre-primary and primary school levels, also assume the role of babysitters and caregivers. With the birth of social media, people are now able to express themselves freely, and it is not uncommon to come across parents on social media praying for schools to re-open because they are tired of spending too much time with their children! Some parents even go as far as leaving the guidance and disciplinary roles to teachers. The important role that teachers play in our society cannot be overemphasised, but sadly they are not given the respect they deserve.
BOSETU vice president, Mogomotsi Motshegwa, in his speech captured that it was only after their intervention that teachers were pushed to the front of the line to get vaccinated for COVID-19. This should not have been the case as government should have decided to add educators to the list of frontliners without any reminders. It is common knowledge that teachers interact with hundreds of students daily, increasing their risk of being infected. Teachers in our country work in a very difficult environment, due to limited resources.
Educators are sometimes forced to find ways to give their students material for their school work, due to the acute shortage of books in our schools. Sadly, when school-leaving examination results are released, we are usually the very first to criticise teachers, without even looking at what other factors could have contributed to such poor results. Some parents show no interest in their children’s education, and when their children don’t do well in school, they climb rooftops and blame teachers. Let's give teachers the respect they deserve and also recognise their good deeds. We thank you teachers for moulding us into the people we have become. We appreciate and adore you!
