Teaching in the era of technology is becoming increasingly challenging for educators, said Sujatha F. Talwar, Head of the Madikeri Akashvani (All India Radio) station.
Speaking at an event organised by Rotary Misty Hills at the city’s Press Club, Talwar said students today have access to vast amounts of knowledge through modern technology, making it necessary for teachers to continually update their own knowledge and skills. She was speaking after presenting the ‘Nation Builder’ awards to four teachers. She said the teaching profession had become increasingly challenging because traditional methods alone were no longer sufficient. Teachers, she added, have the responsibility of imparting curricular and extra-curricular knowledge while helping students understand new concepts. Talwar also observed that children often become mentors to their parents and that teachers have much to learn from them. She said that for teachers, conducting a class has always been comparable to a daily “trial by fire”.
Speakers at the event praised teachers for imparting life values in addition to the prescribed curriculum and described them as important guides for society. Talwar said a good mentor plays an important role in helping individuals achieve their goals.
Rotary Misty Hills President P.R. Rajesh said the organisation honours teachers in recognition of their role in shaping citizens. He emphasised the importance of mentors at different stages of life.
H.S. Vasanthakumar, Assistant Governor of Rotary Zone 6, described teachers as guides for students and society and said Rotary organisations were encouraging future educators by recognising the achievements of teachers.
Rotary Zonal Leader Ponnachana Madhusudan said a good society could be built more effectively when it had good teachers.
The ‘Nation Builder’ awards were presented to Kuttanda Lava and Bhimayya of Ammatti-Karmadu village, who train youth aspiring to join the armed forces; N.T. Shankaranarayana, a chess coach from Madikeri; P.M. Padmavathi, Headmistress of Arekadu Government School; and Siddaraju Bellayya, a retired principal from Madenadu.
Rotary Misty Hills Secretary Dr. Chetan G.D. proposed the vote of thanks. Rotary Directors Anil H.T., Anita Poovayya, Satish Somanna, Dr. Taranand and Dr. Krishnadeep conducted the proceedings. The ‘Roto Mist’ newsletter, edited by journalist Nishanth Belyappa, was also unveiled.
Reflections from the awardees
Kuttanda Lava Bhimayya, Army Trainer, said the number of people joining the armed forces from Kodagu was steadily declining and that there was also reduced interest among young people in joining the Army, Police, Revenue and CESC departments. He called for efforts to motivate students to consider careers in the armed forces.
N.T. Shankaranarayana, Chess Coach, said life should be approached like a game of chess, without excessive concern about winning or losing, with greater emphasis on happiness, peace and health rather than success or failure.
P.M. Padmavathi, Headmistress, Arekadu Government School, said it was commendable that Rotary had recognised the contributions of teachers through its long-standing service to society.
Siddaraju Belyayya, Retired Principal, Made, said children were like God to teachers and schools like temples, adding that society respected good teachers and that educators had a responsibility to discharge their duties with diligence and awareness.
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