Teachers of Amrita Vidyalayam, Juinagar participated in Teachers’ Day celebrations on September 9, 2017 in the school auditorium. The celebrations were single-handedly arranged by Principal Brni. Rekha.
The celebrations started with the lighting of the auspicious lamp and prayers to “Amma”. The Chief Guest for the function was Dr. S.P. Kale, Department Head and Professor at Symbiosis International University, Pune. Principal Brni. Rekha welcomed the Chief Guest, Swami Avyayamrita Chaitanyaji, Prabhuji, and the teachers.
Brni. Rekha acknowledged the challenges faced by teachers today due to the entirely new dynamics of the process of learning. She emphasized the implementation of methods of teaching that would help children to adapt to the realities of life, and encouraged teachers to become learners themselves in order to adapt to the changing world.
Swamiji started his address by chanting a Guru sloka. He narrated real life incidents to emphasize how significant the role of a teacher is in shaping a child’s mind. He also said that although a teacher may not be able to see the results of his/her work immediately, consistent commitment and dedication to imparting knowledge would definitely show positive results in the future. Swamiji presented teachers and staff with a gift as a token of appreciation.
Dr. Kale shared his personal experiences as a student, and how his teachers had a major role in shaping his life. He initiated the teachers into interesting methods of teaching, giving the example of Guru Dronacharya who will always be remembered more for the sacrifice of his disciple Ekalavya than the achievements of his favourite student Arjun. An interesting point he made was to not distinguish between subjects, but to find similarities which would help students expand their knowledge and also make the process of learning interesting. He emphasized society building activities for children of which teachers form an integral part.
Each of the sessions had a refreshing impact on the teachers as they relived moments of their childhood in school and how deep an impact certain teachers had on them.
The session ended with the chanting of Shanti Mantra.
