Pakistan can only rise if we promote education and respect teachers, Senator Mushahid's message on World Teachers Day

Date : October 05, 2013

Islamabad (October 4, 2013): “Today, the whole world celebrates World Teachers Day, paying tribute to teachers who are in the noblest profession with the most noble of goals, imparting learning, knowledge and wisdom to the young generation. As a person who started us career as a teacher - at the Punjab University in Lahore - I can well relate to teachers, their aspirations and their problems.” This was stated by Senator Mushhaid Hussain Sayed in his special message on the occasion of World Teachers’ Day.

He said that more than any segment of society, teachers play a pivotal role in promoting values, building character and changing destiny of people's and nations. Other than parents, teachers are the first role model who can shape a student's thinking and personality. He was of the view that an educated populace is the biggest defender of any country's core values.

He further stated that all cultures place teachers on a high pedestal - in the East, teachers are the 'Ustaad' or 'Guru' who are guides, full of wisdom while in the West, teachers are the highest paid professionals, looked up to for inspiration and guidance by leaders since teachers are problem solvers and considered among the 'best and the brightest'.

Senator Mushahid, in his message, emphasized that Pakistan's future as a modern, developed and progressive country in the 21st Century, the Asian Century, lies in education, and in education, it is teachers whose role is crucial. Pakistan, its government, people and political parties must raise the level of respect for teachers, give them good financial incentives and substantially increase spending on education and teacher training so that it is at least 5% of Pakistan's GDP.  “Respect for teachers must be matched by perks and privileges to match their education, skills and experience. Only then will Pakistan rise in the comity of nations.” He concluded.