When is Teacher’s Day Celebrated in Popular Study Abroad Destinations?

Teacher’s Day is an important occasion celebrated to honor and appreciate the contributions of educators worldwide. In India, Teacher’s Day is observed on 5th September every year. This date is especially meaningful as it commemorates the birth anniversary of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, India’s second President, illustrious scholar, and philosopher. 

The story behind this day is heartwarming—Dr. Radhakrishnan, when approached by students to celebrate his birthday, requested that instead, the day be dedicated to honoring teachers. Thus, 5th September became a day to celebrate teachers’ vital role in shaping future generations.

The celebration of Teacher’s Day in India is marked with great enthusiasm, with students organizing events, performances, and activities to express their gratitude to teachers. It’s a day to remember that teachers do more than impart knowledge—they mentor, inspire, and guide students throughout their educational journeys.

While Teacher’s Day is celebrated on 5th September in India, different countries around the world observe this special day on different dates. Each country has its own historical or cultural significance attached to Teacher’s Day, honoring educators in their unique way. 

Here’s an overview of when and how Teacher’s Day is celebrated in popular study-abroad destinations.

United States: Teacher’s Day in USA

In the USA, Teacher’s Day is part of Teacher Appreciation Week, which is held during the first full week of May. The specific Teacher’s Day is celebrated on the Tuesday of this week. This week-long celebration is designed to show gratitude to teachers for their hard work, dedication, and the influence they have on their students’ lives.

Overview of Teacher’s Day in the USA

During this week, students, parents, and communities come together to thank teachers. Schools often host special events, and students create cards, gifts, or videos to express their appreciation.

United Kingdom: Teacher’s Day Celebrations

Unlike many other countries, the UK does not have a specific Teacher’s Day. However, educators are still celebrated through various events, awards, and recognitions throughout the year. Schools often hold special days to acknowledge teachers, especially during important milestones such as graduation or exam results.

Australia: Teacher’s Day on the Last Friday of October

In Australia, World Teacher’s Day is observed on the last Friday of October. This date is aligned with the global celebration of World Teachers’ Day on 5th October, but Australia celebrates it later due to the school calendar. The day is an opportunity to recognize the hard work and dedication of teachers, particularly their resilience during challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic.

Overview of Teacher’s Day in Australia

Germany: Teacher’s Day on 5th October

In Germany, Teacher’s Day coincides with the global World Teachers’ Day, celebrated on 5th October. This day was established by UNESCO to recognize the essential role that teachers play in education and development worldwide. The German education system, known for its high standards and efficiency, takes this opportunity to honor teachers who shape the future of the nation by imparting knowledge and skills.

China: Teacher’s Day on 10th September

In China, Teacher’s Day is celebrated on 10th September each year. This day was first established in 1931 and became an official national holiday in 1985. On this day, students present flowers, cards, and sometimes small gifts to their teachers as a token of respect and gratitude. Chinese culture highly values education and Teacher’s Day is a reflection of the deep-rooted reverence for educators.

Overview of Teacher’s Day in China

South Korea: Teacher’s Day on 15th May

In South Korea, Teacher’s Day is celebrated on the 15th of May. This date was chosen to commemorate King Sejong the Great, a revered historical figure known for promoting education and creating the Korean alphabet. Students in South Korea often give carnations to their teachers, a symbol of respect and admiration.

Japan: Teacher’s Day Events

Japan does not have an official Teacher’s Day, but teachers are celebrated on other occasions, such as during school anniversaries or special ceremonies. Education is highly valued in Japan, and teachers are respected figures in society. Although there isn’t a specific day dedicated to them, they receive widespread recognition for their role in shaping young minds.

Brazil: Teacher’s Day on 15th October

In Brazil, Teacher’s Day is celebrated on the 15th of October. This day was established in 1963 to recognize the crucial role that educators play in Brazilian society. Schools across the country often organize special events, and students present gifts and cards to their teachers to show appreciation.

France: Teacher’s Day observations

Like the UK, France does not have a specific Teacher’s Day. However, the country celebrates World Teachers’ Day on 5th October as part of the global observance. In schools and universities, teachers are appreciated for their dedication to student success and various activities are organized to recognize their contributions.

Turkey: Teacher’s Day on 24th November

In Turkey, Teacher’s Day is celebrated on 24th November. This date was chosen to commemorate Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkey, who established the country’s first schools. The day honors teachers for their role in building a strong, educated society. It is customary for students to give flowers and gifts to their teachers, and schools often hold special ceremonies to mark the occasion.

Overview of Teacher’s Day in Turkey

Conclusion

Teacher’s Day is a global celebration that varies from country to country, reflecting the cultural and educational values of each region. Whether it’s the 5th of September in India, the 10th of September in China, or the 24th of November in Turkey, the day is a reminder of the profound impact that teachers have on shaping future generations. MSM Unify overseas education consultants appreciate the role of educators in nurturing talent and guiding students toward their academic and professional goals across study-abroad destinations.

This Teacher’s Day, let us express our heartfelt gratitude to all the educators who dedicate their lives to imparting knowledge and wisdom. Happy Teacher’s Day 2024!

FAQs

1. On which date is Teacher’s Day celebrated in India? 

Teacher’s Day in India is celebrated on 5th September, in honor of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan.

2. Why is 5th September celebrated as Teacher’s Day? 

The day marks the birth anniversary of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, a prominent philosopher, educator, and India’s second President, who advocated for the significance of teachers in society.

3. Which country celebrates Teacher’s Day on 24th November? 

Turkey celebrates Teacher’s Day on 24th November, commemorating Mustafa Kemal Atatürk’s efforts in establishing modern education in the country.

4. When is Teacher’s Day celebrated in the USA? 

In the USA, Teacher’s Day is observed on the first Tuesday of May, as part of Teacher Appreciation Week.

5. Why is Dr. Radhakrishnan’s birthday celebrated as Teacher’s Day? 

Dr. Radhakrishnan was a respected scholar and leader who valued education. When his students wanted to celebrate his birthday, he suggested that it be celebrated as Teacher’s Day to honor all educators.

6. Is Teacher’s Day a public holiday in China? 

Yes, Teacher’s Day in China on 10th September is an official public holiday, widely celebrated by students and educational institutions.

7. What is the significance of Teacher’s Day in Australia? 

In Australia, World Teacher’s Day is celebrated on the last Friday of October, acknowledging the contributions of teachers to the country’s education system.

8. How is Teacher’s Day celebrated in South Korea? 

Teacher’s Day in South Korea is celebrated on the 15th of May. Students typically give carnations to their teachers as a symbol of gratitude.

9. Does the UK have an official Teacher’s Day? 

The UK does not have an official Teacher’s Day, but teachers are appreciated throughout the year with various recognition events and awards.

10. How does MSM Unify overseas education consultants celebrate Teacher’s Day? MSM Unify overseas education consultants recognize the invaluable role of educators by supporting global educational initiatives and promoting teacher-student interactions in study abroad programs.