World Teachers’ Day Highlights Teachers’ Impact and Calls for Greater Support

World Teachers' Day, an annual event celebrated on October 5, honors educators who contribute significantly to society. This year’s theme, “Valuing Teacher Voices: Towards a New Social Contract for Education,” underscores the crucial role teachers play in shaping education policies and their need for representation in decision-making processes.

Originally established in 1994, World Teachers’ Day aims to recognize teachers’ contributions to developing future generations. The occasion is co-convened by prominent global organizations, including UNESCO, the International Labour Organization (ILO), UNICEF, and Education International (EI). It commemorates the adoption of landmark recommendations that set standards for teachers’ rights, responsibilities, and working conditions.

This year marks the 30th anniversary of the event, with Education International Asia-Pacific (EIAP) member organizations calling for greater investment in teacher professional development. At a gathering that included educators from India, Maldives, Thailand, Australia, and Sri Lanka, Anand Singh, EIAP Regional Director, emphasized the power of unions in amplifying teachers’ voices. He remarked, “Unions are the collective voices of teachers, amplifying their concerns, their ideas, and their demands for fair treatment and professional respect.”

The celebrations highlighted the need for increased funding and support for teachers. Discussions focused on creating an inclusive educational system where teachers’ voices shape policies. Xiaoyan Qian from the ILO stressed the importance of attracting and retaining teaching professionals, while John Cena from the Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization Secretariat (SEAMEO) noted, “Valuing teacher voice is not just a goal, but a foundation for building stronger and inclusive education systems.”

Panelists, including educators and union leaders from various countries, shared insights from their regions. They called for actionable steps and policies that demonstrate respect and trust in teachers. EI’s Singh concluded with a call to action, urging concerted efforts to ensure teachers’ voices are valued and to implement transformative educational changes.