Teaching is more than a profession, it is a sacred calling rooted in the noble task of shaping minds and transforming lives. As Proverbs 22:6 reminds us: “Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.” A teacher’s role is to ignite the flame of curiosity, instil values, and nurture the potential within each student.
Yet, when a teacher approaches this calling solely for monetary gain, neglecting the passion that fuels genuine teaching, they betray the very essence of their vocation. Teaching demands a heart full of love and a commitment to see each student not as a mere number, but as a future leader, a child of God, deserving of patience and care.
As the legendary educator Maria Montessori stated: “The greatest sign of success for a teacher is to be able to say, ‘the children are now working as if I did not exist’.” True teachers love their students as their own children, guiding them with patience, understanding, and unwavering support.
If a teacher lacks this zeal, if their motivation is solely financial, perhaps they should reconsider their place in the classroom. Because, as Jesus taught in Matthew 7:12:
“So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them.” The very essence of teaching is rooted in love and sincere care.
Furthermore, exemplary teachers go beyond the classroom walls. They communicate regularly with students facing difficulties, reaching out to parents, and sometimes even visiting students at their homes.
They become community builders and advocates for their children’s futures. This extra effort not only demonstrates dedication, but also embodies the biblical command to love one’s neighbour as oneself (Mark 12:31).
Let us remember, teaching is a calling that requires passion, patience, and unwavering love. It’s about shaping hearts, inspiring minds, and building a foundation for a better tomorrow.
If one cannot serve with this spirit, perhaps it is time to reflect and seek a path that truly honours the sacred trust placed in educators.
“Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity.” (1 Timothy 4:12) A reminder to all teachers — your conduct and passion speak volumes. Be the inspiring example your students deserve.
It is the profound responsibility of every teacher to motivate, teach, and mentor the children entrusted to their care. As Proverbs 9:9 reminds us: “Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be still wiser; teach a righteous man, and he will increase in learning.”
Recently, during a public consultation on the Education Act 1966 at Tavua District School hall, concerns were raised about rising poor behaviour both at home and in schools.
Concerned parent Mereseini Rika proposed bringing back corporal punishment, citing the deteriorating discipline among students. She urged its inclusion in the revised Act, reflecting a desire for stricter discipline to curb misconduct.
However, the discussion was met with legal and ethical considerations. David Solvalu, a legal drafter, clarified that corporal punishment is unconstitutional under Section 41 of Fiji’s laws, which safeguards children from violence.
He emphasised Fiji’s commitment to the Denarau Declaration — a progressive roadmap for education that promotes the dignity and rights of children, emphasising positive discipline and holistic development.
This incident underscores a critical point of the importance of qualified, passionate teachers who understand that discipline and character-building are rooted in love, patience, and the right approach.
Teachers are the frontline agents of moral guidance, and their role extends far beyond academics. They are pivotal in shaping behaviour, instilling discipline, and fostering respect without resorting to violence.
A high-energy child is not out of control that is sometimes misrepresented as mischievous. Such children are full of life, curiosity, and enthusiasm, they simply need proper direction, not shame.
These children’s exuberance is a gift, a sign of vitality and potential. It is the role of teachers to channel this energy constructively, providing guidance that encourages positive behaviour and self-control without suppressing their natural spirit. True discipline is about nurturing and guiding, not shaming or humiliating.
The essence of teaching lies in the special qualities that make it unique: patience, compassion, integrity, and a genuine love for students.
As the great John D. Rockefeller once said: “The secret of success is to do the common things uncommonly well.” True teachers understand that their greatest achievement is not just academic success, but the transformation of a non-performing undisciplined fool into a well-behaved, intelligent, and compassionate individual
If a teacher cannot embody these qualities, if their motivation is solely financial, then perhaps they should reconsider their place in this sacred profession. Because the first and most essential quality of any educator is to treat their students as they love their own children—with patience, kindness, and unconditional love. As Jesus taught in Matthew 22:39, “You shall love your neighbour as yourself.” This love fuels the desire to nurture and uplift every child, regardless of their background, ethnicity or abilities.
Moreover, true teachers go the extra mile. They communicate frequently with students facing difficulties, reach out to parents, and sometimes even visit students in their homes. These efforts demonstrate their genuine commitment, showing that they see beyond test scores and grades, they see lives to be built and dreams to be realised.
Such dedication not only fosters individual growth, but also encourages community involvement and a collective responsibility for the education and well-being of children.
In the words of Mahatma Gandhi: “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” Teachers who serve selflessly become guiding lights in their students’ lives, helping them navigate challenges and encouraging them to aim higher.
Let us remember that teaching is a noble profession, a divine calling that demands integrity, passion, and love. Those who lack these qualities should seek a path better suited to their talents.
Because when a teacher truly loves their students as their own children, they plant seeds of hope, resilience, and wisdom that will flourish for generations to come.
And as Galatians 6:9 encourages us: “And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap if we do not give up.” A reminder to teachers, your perseverance and love are the greatest gifts you can give to your students and your community.
The best thing about teaching, apart from any other profession, is that teachers witness the profound impact of their work firsthand, seeing their students grow into responsible, intelligent, and compassionate adults.
Teachers have the unparalleled privilege of witnessing the tangible outcomes of their efforts in the lives of their students. They see sparks of potential ignite into flames of confidence, responsibility, and wisdom.
More than that, teachers often continue to watch over their students long after they leave the classroom, taking pride in their growth and success as they navigate adulthood.
This ongoing connection is a testament to the deep, lifelong impact that a dedicated teacher can have. They have the privilege of shaping not just individual lives, but the very future of their community and nation.
Every leader, every innovator, every responsible citizen has passed through the hands of a dedicated teacher from primary school to tertiary education.
These teachers are the silent architects of leadership and progress, they shape minds and personalities that determine the path their institutions and countries will take.
When teachers passionately embrace their role as nation-builders, they produce a generation capable of lifting their country into prominence, of guiding it through challenges and opportunities alike.
The future of any nation rests on the quality of its educators — those who invest their time, love, and expertise in nurturing the leaders of tomorrow.
Equally important is the well-being of our teachers. Proper remuneration and compensation for their hard work and sacrifices are vital.
The investment in teachers’ professional development and their retention in the profession is like fine red wine, the more years they dedicate, the better the product becomes. Experienced teachers bring wisdom, stability, and a deeper understanding of how to nurture and discipline with love and patience.
Supporting their growth and well-being ensures they remain motivated, engaged, and effective in guiding the next generation. Maybe a retirement age of 70 years would retain some of our exemplary mentors in the teaching field.
Let us honour and support our teachers for they hold the destiny of our nations in their hands. When they teach with passion and love, they do more than educate, they inspire, transform, and elevate generations toward greatness.
n JOSAIA GONEWAI is the former SODELPA policy officer/national treasurer and current Special Administrator for Suva City. The views expressed herein are his and not of this newspaper.
