Mangalore, September 6: Prof K Chidananda Gowda, Former Vice Chancellor of Kuvempu University said that, “No country rises above the level of teachers. Teachers play a pivotal role in the progress of a country”. He was speaking at the felicitation programme; from Mangalore University at the teachers’ day celebrations on Friday, September 5th in recognition for his contribution in the field of teaching and research.
Knowledge is not only for the sake of gaining knowledge but for creating wealth for the country. The knowledge imparted by the teachers helps in building the nation, he added.
Mr Gowda highlighted that the Delors Commission report ‘Learning: The Treasure Within’ which stressed four pillars of education i.e. learning to know, learning to do, learning to live together and learning to be. He called upon the teachers to follow these pillars of learning.
Former director of Centre for Liquid Crystal Research, Bangalore Prof K A Suresh said that Dr Sarvapalli Radhakrishnan had advocated the greatness of Hindu religion while propagating philosophy. He tried to create awareness among Westerners on the greatness of Indian culture. “Teachers should encourage students at an appropriate time. Teaching is a challenging task. It is a balancing act. A good teacher never discriminates his students. Instead, they inspire them”. Teachers should have the habit of writing and documenting.
He also said that Indian teachers have failed to record research materials as textbooks. Instead of depending on western books, they should produce books by their own, he added.
Karnataka Tulu Sahitya Academy President Mrs Janaki Brahmavar said that teaching profession is a noble profession. “It gives happiness in one’s life. At the same time, teachers will have a band of students, who will remember them always.”
Prof Chidananda Gowda, Prof K A Suresh and Janaki Brahmavar were felicitated for their excellent contributions to the field of teaching and research.
Prof K Byrappa Vice-Chancellor of Mangalore University in his presidential address said that teacher’s job today is to facilitate students. He/she has to inspire and motivate students.
He said that Sarvapalli Radhakrishnan acted as an ambassador of India who carried forward the legacy of Indian philosophy which was left by Swami Vivekananda. “He was not only a philosopher but also acted as a bridge between India and western countries.”
‘Best Teacher Awards’
On this occasion, the Mangalore University has felicitated the ‘Best Teachers awards’ to Prof B Narayana, Professor of department of Chemistry (Science faculty) who is also Registrar (Evaluation) of the university and Prof T Mallikarjunappa, Department of Business Administration (Commerce faculty). The award carries a cash award of Rs 25,000 and citation. The award was presented in recognition of their contribution to the field of teaching and research.
In order to screen the applications for the award, an expert committee from outside was set up. For the first time in its history, the Mangalore University had presented the award.
