Introduction
Teachers are the guiding lights who shape societies by nurturing the minds of students. To honor their efforts, countries around the world celebrate Teacher’s Day—but interestingly, the dates and ways of celebration vary across nations. While India celebrates Teacher’s Day on September 5 to honor the birth anniversary of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, other countries have their own historical, cultural, and educational reasons for choosing different dates.
In this article, let’s explore which countries apart from India celebrate Teacher’s Day, when they celebrate it, and how these observances highlight the global respect for educators.
Teacher’s Day in India (September 5)
India marks Teacher’s Day on September 5 every year, commemorating the birth anniversary of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, the second President of India, who was also a philosopher, teacher, and statesman. On this day, students across schools and colleges honor their teachers through cultural events, speeches, and activities, reflecting deep respect for educators’ contribution to nation-building.
Countries That Celebrate Teacher’s Day
1. United States – National Teacher Day (First Tuesday of May)
In the US, National Teacher Day is celebrated on the first Tuesday of May, as part of Teacher Appreciation Week. Schools organize thank-you events, students write cards, and communities recognize teachers for their dedication. The initiative is supported by the National Education Association.
2. China – September 10
China celebrates Teacher’s Day on September 10. The day was established in 1985 to honor the hard work of teachers. Students present flowers, cards, and gifts to their teachers, while schools host ceremonies to acknowledge their contributions.
3. Brazil – October 15
In Brazil, Teacher’s Day is celebrated on October 15. The tradition began in 1827 when Emperor Pedro I signed a decree creating schools in every town. The day honors both the historical importance of education and the role teachers play in shaping future generations.
4. Thailand – January 16
Thailand observes National Teacher’s Day on January 16, established in 1957. Students pay respects through Wai Khru ceremonies, where they offer flowers and kneel before teachers as a gesture of gratitude and respect.
5. Iran – May 2
In Iran, Teacher’s Day is celebrated on May 2, marking the anniversary of the martyrdom of Dr. Morteza Motahhari, a respected Islamic scholar and educator. The day highlights teachers’ role in preserving culture, values, and education.
6. Turkey – November 24
Turkey celebrates Teacher’s Day on November 24. The date marks the anniversary of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkey, being declared the “Head Teacher of the Nation” in 1928. Special ceremonies are organized to honor teachers across schools.
7. South Korea – May 15
South Korea celebrates Teacher’s Day on May 15, the birthday of King Sejong the Great, known for creating the Korean alphabet. Students express gratitude by offering carnations, gifts, and letters to their teachers.
8. Argentina – September 11
Argentina observes Teacher’s Day on September 11, commemorating the death anniversary of Domingo Faustino Sarmiento, the seventh President of Argentina and a strong advocate of public education. Schools conduct tributes and events to honor his contributions.
9. Mexico – May 15
Mexico celebrates Teacher’s Day on May 15, known as Día del Maestro. It was established in 1918 and coincides with the Catholic feast of St. John Baptist de La Salle, the patron saint of teachers. Schools often organize ceremonies and award events for teachers.
10. Vietnam – November 20
Vietnam celebrates Teacher’s Day on November 20, one of the most important days for the country’s education system. Students organize cultural programs, visit teachers, and present flowers as a sign of respect.
11. Russia – October 5 (World Teachers’ Day)
Russia observes Teacher’s Day on October 5, aligning with UNESCO’s World Teachers’ Day. Schools organize activities, and teachers are honored for their role in education and national development.
12. Nepal – Guru Purnima (July)
Nepal does not have a fixed Teacher’s Day but celebrates it on Guru Purnima, a traditional Hindu festival honoring teachers and spiritual gurus. Students pay respect through rituals, offering garlands, and cultural performances.
13. Malaysia – May 16
Malaysia observes Teacher’s Day on May 16, known as Hari Guru. The date was chosen to mark the adoption of the Razak Report in 1956, which restructured the education system. Schools celebrate with performances, awards, and thank-you gestures.
14. Indonesia – November 25
Indonesia celebrates National Teacher’s Day on November 25, which coincides with the founding of the Indonesian Teachers’ Association in 1945. The day includes parades, seminars, and student activities dedicated to educators.
15. Czech Republic – March 28
In the Czech Republic, Teacher’s Day is observed on March 28, marking the birthday of John Amos Comenius, known as the “Father of Modern Education.” Events include ceremonies, recognition of outstanding teachers, and cultural activities in schools.
UNESCO’s World Teachers’ Day (October 5)
Apart from country-specific dates, the world collectively celebrates World Teachers’ Day on October 5, as declared by UNESCO in 1994. The day highlights the importance of teachers globally, addresses challenges in the teaching profession, and emphasizes investment in quality education.
Conclusion
Teacher’s Day is not just a symbolic event—it is a global movement to recognize the hard work, sacrifices, and dedication of teachers. From India’s celebration on September 5 to Thailand’s traditional ceremonies in January and Brazil’s October observance, each country has its own way of honoring educators.
While the dates vary, the spirit remains the same—respect, gratitude, and recognition for teachers who shape our future.
By celebrating Teacher’s Day worldwide, societies remind themselves that progress is possible only when educators are empowered, appreciated, and supported.