OUR TEACHERS DESERVE TO BE APPRECIATED

Sir,

I feel compelled to express my thoughts on a matter that weighs heavily on my heart, the appreciation of our teachers in Eswatini. Allow me to borrow the words of George Orwell: “All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others.”

This sentiment rings true in our society, where the invaluable contributions of our educators often go unnoticed. Teachers continue to work diligently in these challenging circumstances, yet their efforts remain largely unrecognised. My own journey through school was not without its hurdles, but I managed to persevere. Unfortunately, many in our country, particularly in rural areas, do not share the same opportunities.

Failed

It appears that government has failed to fully understand or appreciate the significance of the teaching profession. Teaching is not merely a job; it is a calling, a commitment to nurturing the future generation. I wish to highlight the extraordinary lengths to which teachers go to support struggling children in our rural communities. Many students arrive at school wounded; emotionally and physically, having experienced abuse at home. For these children, school is often their only refuge, and teachers become their last hope.

Provide

They provide not only education but also nourishment, love, and protection. It is crucial to recognise that a teacher’s role extends far beyond the classroom walls. In recent years, the devastation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic has further strained the livelihoods of many families. The loss of jobs and the burden of caring for unemployed relatives weigh heavily on those still fortunate enough to have work.  Imagine being a teacher faced with a child, who has lost both parents or the main breadwinner in their home. The emotional toll is significant, and yet teachers persist, doing their utmost to provide stability in the lives of these young learners. Despite the difficulties, teachers strive to go the extra mile, particularly when schools are located in challenging environments, such as squatter camps.

They continue to deliver quality education, even as they adapt to the demands of digital learning, a transition made difficult by the lack of resources, such as data and technology, for many families. While I have observed some improvements in our education sector, particularly in rural schools, we must not overlook the immense pressure placed on our educators. They deserve recognition and support, not condemnation. Education remains the key to success and empowerment in our society. Without it, individuals struggle to find their footing in an increasingly competitive world. It is disheartening to witness teachers being treated as beggars, their hard work going unacknowledged.

Many educators face harassment and criticism, often from those who have themselves benefitted from the very system they now disparage. This cycle must be broken; we need to advocate for our teachers and recognise the crucial role they play in shaping our future. In conclusion, let us stand together to appreciate our teachers for their tireless dedication and resilience. They are the backbone of our educational system and deserve our utmost respect and gratitude.

Edwin Dlamini

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