Today, Tuesday, is World Teachers’ Day. It is an occasion to reflect on the critical importance of teachers in the attainment of our personal goals but also in the development of countries and the world.

We all know that teaching is one of the most unappreciated professions of our time despite the invaluable role of teachers in human civilisation and societal development.

The outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic, which forced protracted school closures around the world, may have reminded many of the role of teachers in society – with parents stuck with children at home, many struggling to help with remote schooling – yet this is unlikely to result in a major shift in the way we treat teachers.

In many parts of the world, teachers are among the least paid workers even as they are among employees who tend to work longer hours, even working from home long after normal working hours.

In Rwanda, there have been efforts over the years to improve the living conditions of teachers, notably through affordable credit facilities, housing and other incentives.

Indeed, the Ministry of Education is well aware of the challenges that teachers face and has come up with some incentives which, albeit, don’t go far enough.

Indeed, financial incentives that the teaching vocation attract are not commensurate with today’s market prices.

There is still a long way to go if we are to reward every teacher fairly.

Now, today, some 50 outstanding teachers in Rwanda are set to be rewarded for their dedicated service. This is a commendable act of recognition. Such gestures are a welcome demonstration of gratitude and can serve as a great source of motivation.  

Nonetheless, occasions like the World Teachers’ Day should only serve to highlight the indispensable role that teachers play in society, but recognising their contribution should not be limited to one day in a year.

Teaching is a noble and essential profession that should be celebrated every day. And it doesn’t always have to be the government to take the lead in this, parents, and school proprietors and administrators all have a key role to play in this effort.

Everyone, in their own way, can celebrate a teacher and make them feel valued and appreciated. After all, we all benefit from their service.