Rahul Gandhi, Kharge Greet Teachers on Teachers’ Day, Call for Equal Access to Quality Education

NEW DELHI, Sep 5: Congress leader and Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Saturday paid tribute to former President and eminent educationist Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan on his birth anniversary and extended greetings to teachers on Teachers’ Day.

In a post on social media platform X, Gandhi said he paid his respectful tributes to Dr Radhakrishnan, who was born on September 5.

Greeting teachers, Gandhi acknowledged their contribution to shaping students and guiding future generations.

“Heartfelt greetings to all teachers on National Teachers’ Day. With your knowledge, service and dedication, you shape the future of students and provide direction to the coming generations of the country — your contribution is invaluable,” he said.

Gandhi also highlighted concerns over India’s education system and called for collective efforts to ensure that students are not denied opportunities due to their social or economic circumstances.

“Today, India's education system is raising several serious questions before us. We have to work together to build a system where every student gets equal opportunities, quality education and a bright future,” he said.

Congress president and Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge also greeted teachers and paid tribute to Dr Radhakrishnan, stressing the important role educators play in shaping society and the nation.

“Teachers shape minds, nurture values and build the foundations of our nation's future,” Kharge said in a post on X.

“On #TeachersDay, we celebrate every teacher whose knowledge, patience and dedication inspire generations,” he added.

Kharge also remembered Dr Radhakrishnan as a distinguished philosopher, teacher and statesman whose intellectual legacy continues to inspire generations.

“We also pay homage to former President of India, Dr. S. Radhakrishnan, an eminent philosopher, teacher and statesman whose wisdom remains timeless and forever inspiring,” he said.

Teachers’ Day is observed across India every year on September 5 to commemorate the birth anniversary of Dr Radhakrishnan, who served as the country's second President from 1962 to 1967.

A renowned philosopher, scholar and educationist, Dr Radhakrishnan made significant contributions to India's intellectual and academic life. Schools and educational institutions across the country mark the occasion with programmes honouring teachers and recognising their role in educating, mentoring and nurturing students.

The occasion also serves as a reminder of the importance of teachers in fostering knowledge, values and social responsibility among young people.

The messages from Gandhi and Kharge came amid an ongoing political debate over the state and direction of India's education system. The Congress has repeatedly emphasised the need for greater access, affordability and quality in education, while calling for equal opportunities for students from all sections of society.

Their messages also underlined the broader role of teachers as mentors who help shape students' character, values and capabilities, thereby contributing to the future of the country.