Champions of Change: Role of Teachers

5th September 2025: Incidents involving students turning to violence, such as the recent heartbreaking murder at the SDA High School in Ahmedabad, and the infamous murder of a student in the Ryan International School in Gurgaon a few years ago have cast a shadow over the educational environment in India. These tragic occurrences serve as a wake-up call, highlighting the critical role that teachers play—not just as educators, but as pivotal figures in shaping the minds and future of their students.

Two days ago, The Times of India reported that surprise bag checks in Ahmedabad schools have uncovered a range of concerning items. The items found include prohibited substances like electronic cigarettes, lighters, vapes, and alcohol, more alarmingly, contraceptives were also discovered.

In response, some schools have banned certain items, while others focus on counselling to understand the reasons behind student behaviour. Parents are informed about confiscated items, and some of them acknowledge that their children's behaviour is beyond their control.

Experts attribute the findings to peer pressure, social media influence, and exposure to violence on OTT platforms. They also suggest that home environments play a role, with easy access to addictive substances contributing to the problem.

The incident highlights the need for school teachers to address underlying issues and collaborate with parents to ensure student safety and well-being. By working together, schools can create a safer and more supportive environment for students to thrive.

In Sikhism, the Guru is revered as a spiritual teacher who guides seekers on the path to enlightenment. The Adi Granth emphasizes the importance of the Guru's role in helping individuals realize their true potential. As it is written, "The Guru is the ladder to cross the ocean of existence".

The Bible emphasizes that teachers are responsible for teaching with wisdom and patience, being models of good works, and nurturing students to grow in love and knowledge .

According to the Bhagavad Gita, a teacher's duty is not just to impart knowledge but to guide students on the path of righteousness and self-discovery. The Upanishads portray teachers (gurus) as vital guides in dispelling ignorance and transmitting higher knowledge, emphasizing the sacred, personalized Guru-Shishya relationship and a lifelong pursuit of wisdom. Texts like the Advayataraka Upanishad define a guru as one who removes darkness.

In the Quran, teachers are regarded as noble individuals who contribute significantly to society.

A doha by poet Kabir Das goes as follows, “If a teacher and God are in front of me, whom will I greet first. I will show reverence to my teacher first and then to God, for a teacher is the one who showed me the path to God.”

The Sanskrit word for teacher is Guru. The word "Guru," which comes from Sanskrit, "Gu" and "Ru" have specific meanings:

• Gu: This part is often interpreted to mean "darkness" or "ignorance." It can also be associated with the idea of something that obscures or veils knowledge.

• Ru: This part means "light," "knowledge," or "remover." It signifies the act of dispelling darkness or ignorance.

Together, "Guru" essentially means "the one who removes darkness" or "the one who brings light," referring to a teacher or spiritual guide who dispels ignorance and leads students toward knowledge and enlightenment.

In a world where students may grapple with profound challenges, all religions teach us that Guru or teachers are positioned as the guiding lights that illuminate the path of students. The role of educators in India today extends far beyond the classroom; they have to transform lives, steer the youth away from perilous paths, and inspire a generation to strive for excellence. In the wake of tragic incidents, the importance of building strong connections within the classroom becomes even more apparent. Ultimately, the challenge that teachers face in the context of recent tragic events calls for a united effort among educators, parents, and the community. By working together, they can cultivate a nurturing environment that prioritizes emotional health and academic growth. Collaborative initiatives—such as workshops, support groups, and parental involvement—can significantly enhance the overall educational experience.

Teachers today are not mere dispensers of knowledge; they are transformative mentors. They must ignite passion and curiosity in their students, encouraging them to pursue their dreams and aspirations. By creating engaging learning environments, teachers can instill a love for learning that shields students from negativity. A motivated student is less likely to succumb to despair or resort to violence—teachers can be the catalysts for positive change.

In today's fast-paced world, teachers must continually update their knowledge and skills to provide high-quality education. A recent incident in one of my training sessions for teachers, where no teacher knew about Banu Mushtaq who won the International Booker Prize in 2025, highlights the importance of staying current. I also challenged teachers to speak about Shubhanshu Shukla for three minutes and very few could respond to it. By prioritizing professional development and staying current, teachers can provide high-quality education and support the diverse needs of their students.

The current educational landscape demands that teachers embrace their role as champions of change. In the face of adversity, let us celebrate the indomitable spirit of teachers, recognizing their vital role in fostering a safe, supportive, and motivated educational environment. Together, we can build a brighter future for our children and our society.

By Fr Suresh Mathew