The joys of teaching

Take this simple test: Name five Nobel prize winners in literature or economics or physics ... Or name the five richest men in the world.

Find it an uphill task? How many could you muster?

OK, now name five teachers who played a major role in making you who you are today.

Surprised how easy the last question was? Well, it just goes to prove that it's not the rich and famous or who have fancy credentials who stay in your mind. It's people who care for you, particularly those who did during the formative years of your life.

And it's perhaps because they have such a responsible, but hugely fulfilling, job that almost all teachers seem to be happy and content with life.

"Teachers never grow old ... they stay young at heart," says Safia Khatoon, a teacher of Hindi at Kindergarten Starters, Dubai. Her source of joy is teaching little children.

"Teaching is a fulfilling experience that enriches my life every single day because it is action-packed, exciting and very stimulating. New experiences unfold every day. I grow and learn together with my pupils.

"I thrive on their love. I am touched by small gestures, for instance, when a six-year-old recognises me on the road or comes up to greet me in the supermarket. Being a teacher helps you win a special place in their lives,'' she says.

These may seem like mundane things, but they go a long way in giving Khatoon happiness and job satisfaction. Moreover, she adds, "I have to go beyond the lesson plan and fulfil other roles – counsellor, confidant, friend and motivator."

Khatoon has been teaching for 17 years. She started in 1989 teaching Grade 9 students at Grammar School, Dubai. But a few years later, she got an opportunity to teach in the primary section and that's when her perspective on the job changed.

"I began to enjoy my work more. It was not merely a job for me but teaching became my life and children became my extended family. I realised that I was cut out to teach lower grades and had a way with younger kids.

"The ages from four to nine are crucial years in building a foundation and teaching young children is a pleasure and a new experience every day. I feel I can contribute more by teaching younger children. They learn new things and grow faster. My job is never boring. I feel honoured that parents entrust their children to us, hence I try my best to nurture them with love and care just like my own children.

"Imparting subject matter is only a small part of my job. I'm also a role model. I always try to inculcate good values in my pupils and help them develop into responsible citizens. They're our future leaders, hence I have a moral obligation to mould and prepare them for challenges they may face in future."

What keeps her going after all these years?

"It's a matter of developing a good rapport with the wards. The bond you develop with younger children is very strong and they never forget you. I often come across former students of mine who are grown up and well settled in their jobs. Some of them work in airports, banks or airlines.

"I am touched and appreciate their thoughtfulness when they recognise me and come up to wish me. Looking at them, I feel I have achieved something. In a way, my dreams are realised through them."