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KT Edit: Why awards for teachers are worth it

Last evening saw the celebration of a profession that is often underpaid and under-recognised. Teachers have traditionally been the biggest influencers in the world, being role models to generations of students. It was an evening that offered recognition to this group of people who make an outstanding contribution not just to students, but to the communities at large. The $1 million Global Teacher Prize is a tribute to the teaching fraternity, an appreciation of the real superheroes. Such certifications, while raising the bar of the quality of teaching, also help share best practices and employ innovative instructional procedures the world over. Creative methods used to make the study material accessible to students and staying up-to-date with best practices become the norm while guiding young people to become wholesome human beings and spreading the message of respect for teachers to the next generation become the intent.
At six to eight hours a day, five days a week, there is no other person who can influence young minds more and through them, society. Teachers guide individuals and help them grow. They are the champions of change and advocates for inclusivity, nurturing students' abilities and confidence using various tools - music, stories, technology and even robotics. A walking resource centre, they, through the gift of instruction, inspire young minds imparting life's lessons, showing students how to become independent and form relationships. A good teacher instils confidence and a growth mindset even as s/he teaches compassion and is sensitive to student differences. Awards such as these are a recognition of the teaching community - the inspiration that has led and continues to lead millions of students to success, the love that makes a generation compassionate, the humble guide who finds pleasure when a student does better than him, the change maker capable of transforming societies. Because inadequate education is the major factor behind the social, political, economic and health issues faced by the world. Today, we salute the teachers of the world who have made us who we are, and equipped us to live in the world we work and socialise with elan and grace. And let's hope more recognition comes their way.