KUCHING: Being a teacher is not only about having the ability to educate students, but also about the dedication and passion to impart knowledge with integrity and sincerity, and guiding others to become something meaningful in the future.
On May 16, teachers across the state will be celebrated and presented with gifts as tokens of appreciation for their hard work, in recognition of their title, and in celebration of their achievements.
Teaching is a profession where the title never fades.
Even after students graduate and leave school, they continue to refer to their educators as “teachers”, a lasting sign of respect that endures even outside the classroom.
Sarawak Tribune spoke to several university students to get their thoughts on the relevance of Teacher’s Day and which lectures they admire most.
CYNTHIA CLARA, 24, Cyberjaya College student
“For me, Teacher’s Day remains relevant on university level. Although the term ‘teacher’ is often associated with school, lecturers are equally educators that dedicated their time and effort to guide us in our academic and personal growth. I admire my former Pengajian Perniagaan teacher during my Form Six years. He was a very firm and disciplined teacher, but also fair and dedicated and pushed us to strive for excellence. I wish all the teachers continued passion, strength and happiness in the profession. May they always feel appreciated and proud of the impact that they make in their student’s life.”
IRENE PHANG ZHI KHOI, 19, Polytechnic Kuching student
“Teacher’s Day is still a relevant celebration for university lecturers as they still play a significant role in shaping student’s knowledge, critical thinking, and professional development even though university teaching is often more independent. I admire my Economics teacher a lot, Madam Tan, who not only shares knowledge, but also inspires my curiosity and compassion. She taught us by asking questions and not giving answers to encourage students to think deeply and arrive at their own understanding. To all the teachers out there – thank you for your patience, passion and dedication. May you always be appreciated, respected and remembered for the difference you make every single day.”
GLORIA MICHELLE LOUIS, 19, UNITAR student
“Teacher’s Day is still important and relevant to celebrate even as a university student, as without them, we are nothing. It is the lecturers who continuously help us achieve knowledge and skills that we need to graduate and be successful in our life for the next step. I admire Madam Khor Cheu Houng a lot, because a great teacher is not only smart, but also kind and loving, and she has all that quality. She has made a big difference in my life, and I will never forget her. To all the teachers out there, thank you from the bottom of my heart. Your hard work, patience and love do not go unnoticed. Happy Teacher’s Day!”
