Prime Minister Narendra Modi appealed to educators not to limit themselves only to textbooks and the established curriculum, but rather to strive to understand the lives, interests, and problems of their students. During a conversation with recipients of the National Teachers' Award, held before Teacher's Day at Lok Kalyan Marg, PM Modi emphasized that education extends beyond books and classrooms.
He stated that teachers must better understand children and help them cope with issues related to their daily lives. Modi stressed the need to go beyond textbooks and the curriculum to delve into the lives of children. He noted that the role of teachers is crucial in ensuring that children do not lose their curiosity, creativity, and openness during childhood, adding that childhood should not be allowed to fade away.
During this dialogue, PM Modi asked the teachers if they try to notice the strengths of children who do not achieve high academic results. He suggested that even if a child is not successful in studies, God has given every child some special ability. He asked the educators to try and discover this talent.
One teacher responded that every child has their own qualities, talents, and difficulties. The task of teachers is to recognize these strengths in children and promote their development. It was also mentioned that teachers organize various extracurricular activities to boost children's confidence and skills.
When PM Modi asked one of the teachers about methods for good public speaking, the teacher replied that confidence and constant practice are necessary to become a good orator.
Furthermore, PM Modi expressed concern over the increasing amount of time children spend in front of screens. He urged teachers to encourage children to participate in sports, physical, and creative activities so they spend less time on mobile phones and other digital devices. It was noted that involving children in such activities is necessary to improve their self-confidence and social skills.
Many other important topics were discussed in this conversation besides academics. One female teacher spoke about her work raising women's awareness about breast cancer, noting that awareness and early screening can help women seek medical attention in a timely manner. Awareness among students regarding narcotics was also discussed. PM Modi emphasized that teachers must pay attention to changes in children's behavior and understand their problems.
PM Modi concluded that a teacher's job is not only to complete the curriculum and prepare children for exams but also to deeply understand children, identify their strengths, and know their problems. He advised teachers to provide children with opportunities for communication, creative thinking, and building self-confidence. PM Modi congratulated the teachers who received the National Teachers' Award and stated the great responsibility of educators in improving the future of children.