Teachers as optimists

Traditionally, we devote one of the columns in September and October to honoring our teachers.

- DR. JUN YNARES

The piece coincides with the international celebration of “World Teachers’ Month” culminating in the marking of “World Teachers’ Day” on Oct. 5.

Perhaps like the rest of the nation, we were distracted during that period and missed the chance to properly honor our teachers amid current controversies. In focusing on challenges, we overlooked the ongoing dedication of teachers—the very optimism we now celebrate.

Though late, this piece is devoted to honoring the teachers who the world calls the hallmark of the “noblest profession.”

By way of a backgrounder, Oct. 5 is meant to mark the anniversary of an important event. On this day, the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and the International Labor Organization (ILO) signed a set of recommendations.

On the momentous of Oct. 5, 1966, the two organizations signed a joint recommendation on the status of teachers. The document is meant to show the world the importance of the teaching profession and the need for people and governments to ensure that they are well cared for, protected, properly compensated, and given the help they require to perform their valuable role in society.