Teachers’ Day is considered a special occasion to honour and respect the teachers and educators for their invaluable contributions to shaping the minds and future of students worldwide. This day serves as a reminder of the important role played by the teachers in fostering a society filled with knowledge, values and critical thinking. The students value this day by showing gratitude towards their teachers and the passionate work they contribute to their lives. Whether through special events, gifts or hand-made greeting cards, take a moment to recognise and celebrate the profound impact of educators in your life. World Teachers’ Day was established by UNESCO in 1994, and marks the date on October 5. Although the date of this celebration varies across different countries, the spirit behind it remains constant. From Australia to France, India to the USA, let’s explore the different dates on which Teachers’ Day is celebrated across the world.

Teachers’ Day Dates Across the World

Australia: The celebration of Teachers’ Day falls on the last Friday of October. If the last Friday of the month falls on October 31 and coincides with Halloween, then the Teachers’ Day celebration in Australia is postponed to November 7. Besides, the NEiTA Foundation and the Australian Scholarships Group (ASG) announce the ASG Community Merit Awards for outstanding contributions of respected teachers.

Canada: Teachers’ Day is celebrated on October 5 in Canada, aligning with World Teachers' Day. On this day, the Canadian Teachers' Federation and its member organisations conduct a public awareness campaign to highlight the contributions made in the teaching profession.

China: Teachers’ Day is celebrated on September 10. Established in 1985, the Chinese government never explained why it falls on this particular date. On this day, several events are carried out in schools and educational institutions, where students present gifts to their teachers as a token of appreciation.

France: Teachers’ Day in France is observed on November 27. The day marks the feast of Saint Joseph Calasanz, founder of the Order of Poor Clerics Regular of the Mother of God of the Pious Schools.

Germany: On October 5, Teachers’ Day is celebrated in Germany, which aligns with World Teachers’ Day. On this day, the achievements of teachers in education are honoured and recognised.

India: Celebrating the birth anniversary of Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, the second President of India and a respected teacher, Teachers’ Day in India is celebrated on September 5. The day is marked by cultural programs and events in schools and colleges performed mainly by students to express their gratitude to teachers.

New Zealand: Teachers’ Day falls on October 29 in this country. The day provides an opportunity to recognise and appreciate the hard work and dedication of teachers in shaping the nation's future.

United Kingdom: Teachers’ Day is also called National Thank a Teacher Day in the United Kingdom. It falls on June 19 every year and is a call to action to reach out to teachers who play a significant role in schools, society, and the country as a whole.

United States of America: Teachers’ Day falls on the Tuesday of the first full week of May which is regarded as Teacher Appreciation Week. The National Education Association (NEA) describes Teacher Day as “a day for honoring teachers and recognising the lasting contributions they make to our lives.”

South Korea: Celebrated every year on May 15, Teachers’ Day in South Korea honours King Sejong, who, apart from being a king, was a great teacher and inventor of the Korean alphabet. Moreover, the origin of Teachers’ Day in South Korea can be traced back to the Joseon Dynasty, where Confucian scholars were highly respected and their teachings were valued greatly.

Teachers’ Day is commemorated differently in different parts of the world, each having its unique way of honouring their teachers. Although the dates and traditions differ, the underlying message remains the same, that is, recognising and appreciating the role played by the teachers in shaping individuals and society.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 29, 2024 06:40 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).