Teachers, reignite the flame of human dignity

Our society is currently standing on a massive wave of change.

Currently, society is undergoing a significant wave of change centered around education. The fundamental element of education has always been the presence of teachers. Throughout the past, present, and future, teachers play a pivotal role in education, yet their valuable position is gradually losing its shine. Their voices are becoming increasingly faint, and we must recognize that restoring the dignity of teachers should go beyond mere professional ethics and be a process that further solidifies the foundations of society.

Past: A Respected Milestone

The teachers I met in the past were both conveyers of knowledge and sculptors of magnificent character. Their statements held the greatest authority in families and society, and the classroom was like a small society in itself. The teachers who guided students with discipline, ethics, and love were not merely professionals but were the moral standards that the entire society leaned on and trusted. There was a time when teachers were not just sources of questions but answers in their very existence.

Now: A place where dignity has been lost

Recently, the position of teachers has been continuously shaken. The classroom is no longer a safe haven, and rudeness, violence, distrust, and isolation are rampant. Violations of teachers' rights are becoming increasingly commonplace, and the most important task for teachers now is not education, but defense and survival. This is not just a problem for a few specific schools or teachers it is a result of society as a whole withdrawing support and respect from teachers, with parts of the current society making teachers scapegoats.

The Future: The Dignity of Teachers is the Dignity of Society

The true task before us is to restore the dignity of teachers. Without the restoration of teacher dignity, any educational reform will end in failure. Teachers must serve not only as conveyors of knowledge but as the foundation of nurturing individuals to become truly human. Since teachers are the only mediators capable of continuously transmitting social values, morality, responsibility, and solidarity, a society that does not respect its teachers is akin to relinquishing its own future.

Three Paths for Change

It is important to protect the authority of teachers through laws and systems. Teachers do not demand power but need respect for their roles. Without this respect and protection, true change cannot occur. Additionally, a community of trust among students, teachers, and parents must be restored. Communication should be based on trust and love, rather than defense. Finally, enhancing the lives of teachers is also essential. They are human and have emotions, and there is a need for programs that support their psychological stability and well-being.

With Teachers, Restarting Society

Now we must reflect deeply. 'What kind of adults are we showing to our children?' Teachers are the ones who have the longest and deepest influence on children. A society that does not respect its teachers will also lead children to lose hope. A true democratic society honors those who dedicate much time for others, and teachers are at the center of that. We must revive the gaze of teachers and breathe life into their fingertips. When they are dignified, education will thrive, society will become stable, and the future will be warm.