One  piece of writing that captured my fancy this season was that composed by a renowned writer of our time, Abel Peter, Peter in his work “Celebrating the Unsung Heroes: World Teachers’ Day,” said “The world is evolving at a pace that seems almost surreal. Technological advancements, societal shifts, and the ever-growing pool of information — it is a lot to keep up with. Yet, in the midst of this whirlwind, teachers stand strong. They are the lighthouses, steering ships through the stormy seas of knowledge.” Wow! These are indeed virtues the society is yet to acknowledge and perhaps reward accordingly.  But the question is what happens when the number of lighthouses starts dwindling?
Going through Abel Peter’s line of thought in his piece, any follower of events and happenings in the education sector, would agree that the theme of  2023 World Teachers’ Day; “The Teachers We Need for the Education we want: the global imperative to reverse the teacher shortage,” takes us to the heart of a global concern —the abundance of impostors in the field of teaching without the requisite know-how for knowledge impartation as well as character moulding and transformation which are the hallmarks of the teachers the society needs. The poor state of the Nigerian economy, has caused so much holes in the wall of education by letting the core teachers leave the field in search of greener pastures thereby creating vacancies for charlatans to occupy all in a bid to secure employment in the absence of one in their area of specialty.
Inundating the teaching profession with  “people without the passion and patience for teaching experience” is tantamount to exposing the child to a world without a guardian,  inspirator, and one to share the joy of discovery. It is a world we do not want to imagine because, without teachers, there is no education. It is like a symphony without a conductor.  Becoming a teacher goes beyond securing a  job instead of staying idle,  it is a calling, it is about shaping minds, moulding futures, and being the change you want to see in the world.
The lack of recognition of people in this profession is the reason for the brain-drain in this area as well as  the challenges that come with the territory. It must be made clear that teaching is a labour the society owes to appreciate. It is time we recognised and appreciated our educators not just in words but in actions. It is time to celebrate the profession for what it truly is — a beacon of hope. Imagine being the reason a child falls in love with numbers, with words, with the wonders of science. Imagine being the reason a child falls head over heels for numbers, for words, for the wonders of science. Teaching is not confined to the subjects you teach; it is about the lives you touch. It is about being a mentor, a guide, and sometimes, a shoulder to lean on. It is about instilling values, inspiring dreams, and creating a ripple effect that transcends generations.
Imagine a world where every child has a mentor, a guide, and a friend in their teacher. It is not just wishful thinking; it is a vision we can turn into reality. We can make the celebration of teachers a regular thing by  supporting and investing  in education, recognising that teachers are the cornerstone of a brighter future for all and by becoming the teachers of the future. Together, we can ensure that the teacher we need continues to inspire and guide us toward a more enlightened and inclusive world. Furthermore, the teacher we need is a lifelong learner. They recognise that knowledge is ever-expanding, and they lead by example in their pursuit of continuous learning. They inspire curiosity and critical thinking in their students, preparing them to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Inclusive education is at the heart of the teacher we need. They embrace diversity and create inclusive classrooms where every student feels valued and respected. By fostering an environment of inclusivity, teachers empower their students to appreciate differences and develop a global perspective. Often, their efforts go unnoticed or are undervalued.
It is essential that we recognise and appreciate their hard work and commitment to the betterment of society.  Let us remember that the teacher we need is not just a figure in the classroom but a beacon of hope, a catalyst for change, and a guardian of knowledge. They are the unsung heroes who shape the future generation, moulding them into responsible citizens who will carry the torch of progress and enlightenment. In conclusion, let us honour and appreciate the teachers in our lives for their invaluable contributions. “The Teacher We Need,” invites us to explore the profound impact educators have on our lives and the qualities that make them indispensable. In an era of rapid technological advancements and shifting educational landscapes, the role of a teacher has evolved far beyond the confines of a classroom.
Today, teachers are not just conveyors of knowledge; they are mentors, facilitators, and influencers who inspire and guide students on their journeys to becoming informed, engaged, and responsible global citizens. One crucial aspect of “The Teacher We Need” is adaptability. In the face of constant change, teachers must be flexible and innovative, adapting their teaching methods to cater to the diverse needs of their students. The modern teacher embraces technology, integrating it seamlessly into the learning process while preserving the essence of human connection. Empathy and understanding are qualities that define the ideal teacher. In a world filled with complexities and challenges, teachers serve as anchors of emotional support for their students. They not only educate but also nurture the emotional well-being of their students, helping them navigate the ups and downs of life.
Thus, the theme of this year is not just a call to action; it is a siren wailing in our ears, urging us to wake up to the reality — a world on the brink of an education crisis due to  shortage of teachers.  The global imperative to reverse the teacher shortage is more than a theme; it is a rallying cry for change, for a brighter future, and for a world where every child has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive. Therefore, it is not just an issue of  concern for the education sector alone, it is a societal responsibility.

By: Sylvia ThankGod-Amadi