Architects of the art of living for children

Every society remembers the valuable contributions made by teachers in shaping the minds of future citizens.
With the second Dr H Virmani Award for Teaching Excellence function - which honours teachers of Indian schools in Oman - scheduled for December 2, prominent members of the society recall the role teachers have played in their lives.

S.K. Virmani, managing director, Bahwan Engineering Group, best describes the role of teachers when he says, "Parents bring children to life and teachers teach them the art of living."
He adds, "If education is a weapon to change the world, then teachers are the architects and designers of such a beautiful weapon."

Remembering his teacher, Dr Avirat Vaishnav, senior consultant paediatric surgeon, says, "My career probably took shape in my final year at the Armed Forces Medical College when Wing Commander D.P. Sarkar taught us the basics of surgery. His confidence as a teacher and depth of knowledge in the subject made a huge impact on me."

Dr Narayan Ramachandran, orthopaedic surgeon, goes on to credit his teachers for making him who he is today. "I maintain that whatever I am today, a doctor, a good human being, is because of the values that my teachers instilled in me. I hold every teacher in high regard as they make (a person). They build character and reinforce the values that we hold," he points out.

Ajeet Walavalkar, general manager, Bahwan Engineering Group, recollects how his teachers provided a wholesome quality learning experience by imparting additional knowledge beyond the curriculum.

"The teachers encouraged creativity and effective communication without any social barriers. Individually, these were the building blocks that shaped the personality which made the students street smart, besides being book smart," he says.
Paying rich tribute to his teachers, Tonny George Alexander, country head, Oman UAE Exchange Centre, says, "Whatever I am today, it is certainly because of my teachers."

Remembering his teacher, Tonny says, "His teaching was emotionally moving. He is the one who taught me to be positive, believe in myself and to uphold the values."

Dr Avirat talks about his chemistry teacher Father Curry.
"Sure I learnt chemistry, but also learnt about sun spots, electronics and many aspects of astronomy. Outside school hours in the boarding school, he was a friend," he recalls.

Dr Narayan talks about the positive impact his orthopedic teacher, Prof Dr Nandu Laud, made in his life, "He instilled in me principles which stand in good stead today and which I pass on to my juniors."

Ajeet Walavalkar talks about the positive impact Fr. Aleu - his school vice-principal - had on him.

"He was an epitome of compassion, yet extremely firm and strict on discipline and a follower of true justice. To the not so disciplined, even his name sent shivers. We were constantly reminded that we were the true representatives of our parents and school. Through him, we imbibed true moral values and elements of culture that we still carry with us today," he said.

Heart to heart
Educationist Leo Lobo remembers his grade two teacher with fond memories.

"Several teachers have inspired me greatly in the most formative years of my education. Those were the days when the rod was not spared; yet, my admiration of her commitment enabled me to forgive every spanking and love her dearly. This particular teacher also happened to be my cousin and her own sister was my classmate. Every such incident was faithfully reported at home and she in turn was pulled up for it by her mother. As recently as a few months ago, and despite being in her 80s, she recalled these incidents and said she would not hesitate to spank me again if I gave a cause," he smiles.

Everyone agrees that the teacher-student relationship has changed drastically from the time when teachers were held in such high esteem.

Dr Narayan feels this is because people now live in a world accustomed to "instant gratification".

"Teachers, unfortunately, are given a curriculum for 12 months which they are expected to complete within a limited period. In this race, the connection with the student is lost.

It is important to come down to the level of the student and making a 'heart to heart' connection. We need to publicly acknowledge the role that our teachers have played in our lives and those of our children. Awards such as this go a long way in recognising the less appreciated segment of the society," he says.

Suresh Virmani agrees that times have changed but says, "The Indian DNA has not (changed). I should say civilised world will always respect teachers. In the present world order, a student uses his or her own intellect, experience and judgement before they hold a teacher in reverence. A teacher can no longer take this reverence for granted. They have to earn it by not only knowing their subject to perfection but communicating the same with love and affection."

Dr Avirat says, "As in every aspect of life, materialism and commercialism have taken hold and it is in this atmosphere that today's teacher works desperately hard to gain the pupil's respect.

"But with time teachers will also need to change their approach from one of authoritarian to one of warmth and companionship in the learning process. Parents play a major role in how the student views the teacher. We need to promote that respect for the teaching community and one way would be to show due respect to our teachers."

While Tonny feels times have indeed changed, he says, "The essence of teaching has not changed and will not change. Teachers should not forget that they have a huge responsibility of moulding the next generation."

Ajeet feels the biggest challenge that teachers face today is to stay abreast of the changing and narrowing world. "They need to constantly upgrade their knowledge and skills, not only in their field but in other areas too, to satisfy the never ending thirst of the modern child," he suggests.

Leo Lobo believes good teachers who care are still loved and revered by students. "The requirements of students have changed, along with the methods of learning brought in by technological advancement. A successful teacher is one who is not afraid to become a learner in the process," he points out.
The participants in this debate feel teachers need to enhance and expand their roles.

"The teaching community needs to keep up with modern teaching techniques, the needs of the new age youngster and not stuck in a time warp. Yes there is the curriculum to follow, but these young minds need to be moulded for life in general and not some numbered page in a text book. They can only do that by being role models themselves," says Dr Avirat.

Role model
Suresh Virmani feels for a teacher to be a role model in all walks of life is a very daunting task but those who can do it will be respected and revered by students for their whole life.
Using a quotation Dr Narayan says, the best teacher is the inspiring teacher who by just example and their own conduct endeavour to bring out the best in the children. It takes only that much more to be an inspiring teacher and a role model to all students, who look up to the teacher in awe and admiration."

Ajeet says due to the familial and socio-cultural pressures on the modern child, the teacher has to primarily be compassionate.
"They have to take their role as true mentors of the children by understanding their needs," he adds.

Leo Lobo says the role of a teacher is one of 'facilitator of learning' and not a source of information.

"A teacher needs to create an atmosphere of warmth and freedom wherein students' innate talents are discovered and their personality is enhanced. A classroom that is all inclusive, helps students in the discovery of self, fosters acceptance of differences in ability and learning styles and prepares students for the real world. In this context, a teacher's role is not limited to teaching, but to playing the part of each of her several roles, whenever necessity demands," he adds.

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Published on Thursday 24th of November 2011 08:45:08 AM Oman Time