At a recent alumni conclave organised by the Alumni Association of Modern School, Barakhamba Road, I was reminded of the life-changing role that teachers play.
The Modernites’ Health Conclave 2023 gathered approximately 100 of India’s most respected medical professionals, all alumni of Modern School, to discuss and debate the spectrum of health challenges facing our vibrant nation.
Amidst these engaging discussions, a remarkable and thought-provoking felicitation took place. Ms. Rita Talwar, one of the school’s most revered teachers of her era, was honoured with respect and recognition in a way that was both moving and humbling. Mrs. Talwar taught biology at Modern School, Barakhamba Road, from 1969 to 1997. Nearly every student from that era who pursued a medical career was profoundly influenced by her. This was a staggering example of the impact a teacher can have on students, communities, and even nations. Teachers are society’s gentlest yet most powerful “forces for good.” I extend my deepest respect to Mrs. Talwar and all teachers of her calibre for being formidable forces nurturing the roots of our society. They embody the rich system of Indian education where the teacher IS the institution of learning. In its original Latin, “Alma Mater” fittingly means the “nourishing/bounteous mother”—one who leads from ignorance to enlightenment. The relationship between a teacher and pupil should be personal, respectful, and filled with mutual moral obligations.
Institutions are blessed when they have teachers who leave a life-altering impact on young minds. These students may attain global eminence, but they never cease to acknowledge the role their early educators played in shaping them. We remember not the curriculum or the marks but the affection, respect, and lifelong curiosity that a great teacher can instil.
India celebrates Teachers’ Day on September 5th. On such occasions, it’s apt to honour the role of teachers in modern India and their exceptional contributions in an era where ‘education’ is often reduced to standardised test scores. In our current educational landscape, the role of teachers should never be diminished to mere agents of curriculum delivery. They remain our key influencers of ethics, character, and are the guardians who light society’s lamps of learning.
Ambika Pant is Honorary Secretary, Modern School Society.