Celebrate National Teachers’ Day 2025: Honoring Educators on September 5th

National Teachers’ Day is celebrated in India every year on September 5. This day honors the hard work and dedication of teachers, recognizing their vital role in shaping society and education.

This special day marks the birthday of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, the first Vice-President and second President of India. When he became Vice-President in 1952, his students suggested celebrating his birthday. Instead, he asked them to honor all teachers on that date. The first Teachers’ Day was observed in 1962, aligning with his 77th birthday.

Dr. Radhakrishnan was born on September 5, 1888, in a town in Tamil Nadu. He blazed trails in education, becoming the first Indian professor at Oxford University in 1931. Over the years, he also served as India’s Ambassador to the USSR and represented India at UNESCO. His contributions to philosophy and public affairs earned him the prestigious Bharat Ratna in 1954.

As of 2025, 81 teachers from various states received the National Teachers’ Awards from President Droupadi Murmu. This acknowledgment celebrated excellence in teaching across different sectors:

• School Teachers: 45 awardees were chosen from public schools.
• Higher Education: 21 teachers from universities and polytechnics.
• Skill Development: 15 teachers recognized for their role in vocational training.

The selection process emphasized teaching effectiveness, outreach, innovation, and research. Each award includes a silver medal, a certificate of merit, and a cash prize of ₹50,000.

The emphasis on honoring teachers reflects a growing recognition of their impact on society, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. According to a survey by UNESCO, nearly 90% of teachers reported feeling more appreciated during this challenging time, highlighting the essential role they play not only in education but in children’s social and emotional development.

As we continue to celebrate National Teachers’ Day, it’s essential to remember the values Dr. Radhakrishnan upheld: respect for educators and acknowledgment of their influence on future generations. The ongoing recognition of teachers’ invaluable contributions is a testament to their crucial role in our lives and society.

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