EDITORIAL - A call for teachers

With the scandals over the misuse of public funds, there are the usual calls for change. Ideally, values formation starts early in life, first at home, then in school. The role of teachers in social change cannot be over-emphasized. Apart from inculcating proper values during a person’s formative years, which promotes responsible citizenship, teachers play a crucial role in developing national competitiveness.

In the past four decades, the Philippines has progressively lagged behind many of its neighbors in both competitiveness and transparency. Neighboring countries have invested heavily in public education and in strengthening institutions involved in good governance and the administration of justice. In investments in education, a large chunk goes to promoting the welfare of teachers. In contrast, the Philippines, long strapped for resources, has seen many of its best teachers leave for greener pastures overseas.

The government has tried to reverse the trend in recent years, raising salaries and easing the workload. A new phenomenon is the transfer of teachers from private to public schools. Education is starting to regain its popularity as a career choice. Since 2010 the government has hired tens of thousands of new teachers. Class sizes are shrinking as a result, moving closer to the ideal teacher-student ratio in certain areas. These were among the pieces of good news as the nation joined the international community in marking World Teachers’ Day on Oct. 5.

Obviously, more can be done for those engaged in what has long been considered a noble profession. Other countries continue to beckon with better pay for educators. Apart from long hours and a lot of extra work, teachers in the Philippines need protection in conflict areas and during elections.

Worldwide there is a shortage of educators. This is reflected in the slogan for this year’s World Teachers’ Day chosen by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization: “A Call for Teachers.” UNESCO pointed out that quality teachers are needed for global citizenship and cultural diversity. Quality teachers mean quality education for all, which is the foundation for lasting peace, sustainable development and a better standard of living, UNESCO noted.

For this year’s World Teachers’ Day, the Department of Education distributed commemorative pins declaring, “Thank you, teacher.” Educators deserve this gesture every day.