Quality teachers and an inclusive curriculum are a must-have for good education

In the words of Dan Rather, “The dream begins, most of the time, with a teacher who believes in you, who tugs and pushes and leads you to the next plateau, sometimes poking you with a sharp stick called truth.”

Education forms the most important part of the life of an individual. The kind of education one receives largely depends upon the kind of teacher one has, especially in the early years of schooling. In today’s scenario, teachers come in all types and sizes. Yet the downslide of the quality of the Indian education system is generally acknowledged and is extremely worrisome. In recent research, it was found that around 45 million teachers are still needed to achieve quality education for everyone and everywhere.

Quality teachers ignite dreams, inspire actions and nurture greatness. They are also the guiding lights that fuel dreams, spark curiosity unlock the potential within every student and make a profound impact on many lives but looking at the current scenarios, the question that worries everyone is the education industry, especially the schools, are they lacking such quality teachers?

There is no denying the fact that teachers and coaches are major doors to the progress of any economy. They are very knowledgeable, humble, and confident and instil a love of learning on the contrary, this profession seems to be the last resort for school and work applicants in the current scenario. Today, many take this profession for want of anything else to do. Also, many quality teachers are not sticking around due to a lack of support, lack of professional development and difficult school culture and climate which is a cause of great concern for the authorities at large. The authorities at all levels need to appreciate the sacrifices of teachers be it standing in the classrooms for long hours, having to stay back after school hours and many more without getting any incentives instead of that. Apart from causing financial stress, this profession has even become a cause of mental health.

Great people can create some quality works, but quality teachers can produce thousands of great people as they are the masters of their craft. They set expectations for themselves as well as their students. It is important to remember that teachers with all sorts of qualities can be found in all colours, shapes and sizes. In the words of Jim Henson, “Kids don’t remember what you try to teach them, they just remember what you are.”

In a quality education system, teachers play a pivotal role as facilitators of knowledge and mentors, guiding students towards intellectual curiosity and a deeper understanding of subjects. Accessible and inclusive education ensures that all individuals, regardless of socio-economic background or other disparities, have the opportunity to unleash their full potential.

Investing in quality education is an investment in the future, laying the foundation for a more just, innovative, and prosperous society. As societies evolve, the emphasis on providing accessible, equitable, and excellent education remains essential for fostering a brighter and more sustainable future for all.

Remember, quality education starts with funding quality teachers, and funding quality teachers begins with quality funding of basic education. It is only quality education that is crucial to break the cycle of poverty and allow the children to create a better life for themselves as well as their families. Good infrastructure, quality teachers and an inclusive curriculum are and will always be the components of a well-organised basic educational structure.

(The writer is an educator, views are personal)