The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Environment and Sustainable Development (UESD), Prof. Eric Nyarko-Sampson, has called on teachers to focus on their work with dedication, without seeking immediate appreciation. He emphasised that if appreciation comes, it means their efforts have been recognised.
Prof. Nyarko-Sampson was speaking as the guest speaker at the launch of Lower Manya Krobo Teacher Prize Award Day, held at Zimmerman Presbyterian Church, Odumase Krobo. The event, themed “Anything Worth Doing Is Worth Appreciating,” was organized by the Lower Manya Krobo Municipal Education Directorate. It was attended by traditional rulers, including some Chiefs of Lower Manya Krobo, representatives from the traditional council, the MP of Lower Manya Krobo, Hon. Ebenezer Terlabi, and the MCE of Lower Manya Krobo, Hon. Simon Kweku Tetteh, as special guests of honor.
Prof. Nyarko-Sampson cited the statement, “Whatever is worth doing at all is worth doing well” by Philip Stanhope, the first Earl of Chesterfield, in a letter to his son in 1774, which was often echoed by his mother as he grew up. He mentioned that this philosophy has been a guiding principle throughout his life. He also highlighted that the core of teaching consists of four basic values: dignity, respect for humanity, truthfulness, and fairness.
The professional teacher and counselor emphasised that the life of every teacher has been influenced by other teachers, highlighting the need for teachers to also make a positive impact on the lives of their students. He continued that teachers have opportunities for further education and are the creators of the next generation. The young people seen around are the future. Teachers are supposed to nurture them, teach them respect, and inspire them to follow in our footsteps.
Prof. Nyarko-Sampson indicated that when talking about teachers’ appreciation, it is a time to celebrate and recognise the tireless efforts they put into their careers, including the contributions of non-teaching staff who also dedicate themselves to the growth and development of young people.
The bigger picture is at the society or community levels. Society and communities need to recognize the efforts of teachers in transforming their communities. When the lives of young people are changed, the status of the community is also changed. Therefore, there is the need for communities to have teacher appreciation days. The community can organize donations and assistance to honor teachers for their efforts, such as supporting outstanding teachers, planning for teacher retirements, and considering what can be done for teachers by the society or community.
Adding that individuals can also consider how to support teachers; this could include parents, alumni, philanthropists, or even current students.
The Lower Manya Krobo Municipal Director of Education, Mr. Samuel Kwesi Tettey, said that teachers are the architects of our future, laying the foundation for a brighter, more enlightened society. Their influence extends far beyond the classroom, shaping the minds and hearts of generations to come.