Honouring teachers in Uttar Pradesh, India

Teachers with their awards of excellence during a special event at Saraswati Shishu Mandir in Uttar Pradesh.

By Aviral Mittal, Rotary Club of Muzaffarnagar Galaxy, Uttar Pradesh, India

As I looked around the hall filled with teachers, I thought about how teachers shape the people that we become. We often remember a doctor who treated us or a leader who inspired us, but behind them all, there was a teacher.

That day, our club had the joy of honouring teachers who have given years of extraordinary service to society. They were recognized with heartfelt words, flowers, and applause. It wasn’t just about an award – it was about appreciation.

We chose to host this event at Saraswati Shishu Mandir because it is more than just a school. It blends modern education with Indian culture and values, aiming to nurture disciplined, patriotism, and well-rounded citizens. With its focus on value-based education, character building, and national pride, the school reflects the very spirit of why we honour teachers – the builders of both individuals and nations.

This philosophy resonates deeply with Rotary’s own values of service, integrity, and community building. Just as the school emphasizes shaping responsible citizens, Rotary works to create a world guided by compassion, respect, and action.

Teachers build the future

The Education Excellence Award initiative was launched by Governor CA. Nitin Kumar Agarwal of District 3100 to recognize teachers across the district who dedicate their lives to shaping young minds and building a stronger society. Seeing the initiative in action reminded me how Rotary doesn’t only serve communities – it also honours those who quietly serve every single day.

Teachers build the future of society. They shape young minds, nurture values, and give children the tools to dream big. A powerful nation is built by wonderful teachers, because every scientist, every leader, every professional first learned from them.

One teacher stood up during the program and said, “Every child I teach feels like my own.” That sentence touched me deeply. It reminded me that teaching is not just a profession – it’s a lifetime of shaping futures.

I couldn’t help but think back to my own school days. There were teachers who encouraged me, corrected me, and guided me with patience. Presenting the Education Excellence Award through Rotary gave me a chance to say thank you, not just to them, but to all teachers who silently build our tomorrow.

Shared values

Rotary, to me, is about:

• Recognizing service in every form.
• Building respect for those who shape society.
• Creating moments where gratitude becomes action.

By honouring teachers at Saraswati Shishu Mandir, we celebrated more than individual achievements – we celebrated the shared values of education and service that both Rotary and the school stand for.

If you’ve ever had a teacher who changed your life, I encourage you to take a moment and thank them. Write a note, make a call, or simply tell them what they mean to you. And if you want to do it with others who care, join us at Rotary. Together, we celebrate not just teachers, but all who serve.