BHUBANESWAR: With the current ruling dispensation laying emphasis on improving education in the state, experts have called for usage of innovative, interactive and inclusive techniques by the teachers for better understanding and participation of the students.
On the eve of Teachers’ Day, Koraput’s Prabitra Mohan Dash was the lone individual from the state who received National Teacher Awards 2018 from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Known for creative teaching techniques, Pabitra used sticks, bamboo, trees and stone to make models and explain theories.
“We need more people like Prabitra,” said Bishnupriya Hota, a senior teacher at a government school here. “With internet, access of knowledge isn’t limited anymore. What is needed is guidance and mentorship to grasp knowledge which is where innovative methods come in.”
Stories of students faring better when their teachers implement newer and creative methods make a point. Take Girish Badoni’s case for instance, who was posted as a teacher four years ago in a primary school in Rudraprayag district of Uttrakhand. On finding out students’ poor ability, Girish came up with a new method. Shunning the traditional sequence of Hindi alphabetical order, he taught them pronunciation on basis of most-used words. As a result, the reading skills of more than 50 students improved within a year.
Students from educational institutes of the city offered rich tributes replete with cultural performances to their teachers on the occasion. A special assembly was conducted to acknowledge the sincere hard work and endless contribution of teachers to commemorate the 131st birth anniversary of academic philosopher Sarvapalli Radha Krishnan at BJEM School here Thursday.
The celebration began on a traditional note with ‘sloka’ chanting followed by floral tributes to the portrait of Radhakrishnan. Principal Sandhya Jena enlightened the gathering with her blissful words on the priceless contribution of teachers to nation building. Vice-Principal Pallabi Mohapatra also expressed that teachers transform the lives of children into meaningful existence.
Student speakers also acknowledged the fact that mentors guide them to become better human beings. A small get-together of teachers was also held to let them feel their values and importance in building a society of ethics and prosperity. The gathering was graced by the presence of Sanghamitra Mishra, who shared how a good teacher inspires hope, ignites imagination and instills love for learning.
The spirit of the occasion was at full display at Loyola School too. The campus wore a festive look with gleeful faces all around. The programme commenced with the lamp lighting ceremony by Principal Victor F. Misquith. This was followed by a prayer song ‘Bhaba Sagara’. Teachers were welcomed with flowers and badges made by students. A colourful programme was presented by the students to showcase their love and appreciation for their eternal mentors.
