Teachers' Day 2026: 6 Powerful Quotes on the Value of Teachers

Teachers' Day 2026 is celebrated in India on September 5 in honour of the birth anniversary of Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, an Indian philosopher and educator who served as the country's second President. The day celebrates the role teachers play in helping students gain knowledge, wisdom and ambition, and over the years many notable figures have spoken about the contribution teachers make.

1. Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan

"The true teachers are those who help us think for ourselves." Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan was a distinguished philosopher and educationist who served as India's first Vice-President and second President, and his educational philosophy placed considerable importance on independent thought and intellectual development. The quote captures an essential role of teachers: they should not merely provide information but encourage students to question, analyse and develop their own understanding.

2. Droupadi Murmu

"Teachers play the most important role in the success of any education system. Teaching is not just a job. It is a sacred mission of human development." President Droupadi Murmu has highlighted the central position of teachers in the education system, with the statement underlining teaching as a responsibility that extends beyond academic instruction. Teachers influence the intellectual and personal development of students, making their contribution important to the long-term development of society.

3. PM Narendra Modi

"The dedication of teachers to nurturing minds is the foundation of a stronger and brighter future." Prime Minister Narendra Modi has often praised the contribution of teachers towards nation-building, and this quote emphasises that education is an investment for the future. Teachers also provide the youth with knowledge and skills that may contribute towards the growth and development of the economy and science.

4. Divya Mittal

"Incredible educators shape young minds and ignite the flames of curiosity." Former IAS officer Divya Mittal highlights curiosity as one of the most valuable outcomes of good teaching, noting that an effective educator does not simply encourage students to memorise facts but inspires them to explore ideas and ask questions. This message is particularly relevant in modern education, where creativity, problem-solving and independent learning are increasingly important.

5. Sonam Wangchuk

"A teacher can shape generations. But if we don't invest in teachers, entire generations will be destroyed." Engineer and educationist Sonam Wangchuk draws attention to the importance of investing in teachers, noting that quality education depends not only on infrastructure and technology but also on capable, motivated and well-supported educators. The statement also connects Teachers' Day with a broader policy question: how can societies strengthen the teaching profession to improve educational outcomes?

6. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam

"Teaching is a very noble profession that shapes the character, calibre, and future of an individual." Former President and renowned scientist Dr A.P.J. Abdul Kalam placed teachers at the centre of individual development. For Kalam, education was closely linked with character, creativity and the ability of young people to contribute to the nation, and his own continued engagement with students and teaching reflected his belief that educators could inspire young minds to dream and work towards meaningful goals.