Tripura Higher Education Minister Kishor Barman says teachers shape the nation’s future at the 65th State-Level Teachers’ Day Celebration in Agartala.
Teachers have a crucial role in shaping the future of the nation by nurturing responsible, capable and value-driven citizens, Tripura Higher Education Minister Kishor Barman said while addressing the 65th State-Level Teachers’ Day Celebration 2026 at Rabindra Bhavan in Agartala on Saturday.
Addressing a packed gathering of teachers, students and dignitaries, Barman said educators do much more than impart academic knowledge. According to him, teachers influence an entire generation by developing character, confidence, discipline and a sense of responsibility among students.
“Teachers have the power to shape the future of an entire generation. By nurturing responsible and capable citizens, they build the foundation of a strong nation,” the Minister said.
Recalling his own student days, Barman paid tribute to the teachers who played an important role in shaping his personality and outlook. He said the guidance, support and values provided by his teachers continued to influence him even after many years.
“The lessons and values imparted by my teachers remain etched in my memory even today,” Barman said, highlighting the lasting impact educators can have on their students.
The Higher Education Minister also stressed that the importance of teachers has increased significantly in the era of smartphones, the internet and artificial intelligence. While technology has made information and knowledge more accessible, he said it cannot replace the human role of teachers in developing character and values.
“Technology can provide information and answers, but it cannot build character, instill courage, or inspire meaningful questioning. Only teachers can do that,” he remarked.
Barman urged students to adopt a broader approach towards education and learning. He said education should not be viewed merely as a means of securing government or private-sector employment. Instead, students should acquire knowledge, practical skills and innovative abilities that can help them become creators of employment opportunities.
The Minister encouraged students to develop confidence, creativity and a willingness to take initiatives. He said a strong education system should prepare young people not only to seek jobs but also to contribute to economic and social development by creating opportunities for themselves and others.
Congratulating teachers selected for the Teachers’ Day awards this year, Barman said their recognition reflected years of sacrifice, dedication, hard work and honesty. He also expressed respect for thousands of teachers who continue to serve students every day without receiving formal recognition.
He acknowledged that many educators work quietly in classrooms and communities, making significant contributions to students’ lives despite remaining away from the spotlight. Their commitment, he said, forms an important part of the foundation of the education system.
Highlighting India’s rich educational heritage, Barman referred to ancient institutions such as Nalanda and Vikramshila, which attracted students and scholars from different parts of the world. He urged educational institutions in the present era to draw inspiration from this legacy.
According to the Minister, schools and colleges should not function merely as examination centres. Instead, they should develop into institutions that promote knowledge, research, innovation and character-building.
The celebration began with a welcome address by Dr. Samit Roy Choudhury, Director of School Education. He highlighted the enduring contribution of teachers across generations and their role in guiding students towards responsible citizenship.
Before the main ceremony, Minister Kishor Barman inaugurated a photographic exhibition on the premises of Rabindra Bhavan. The exhibition showcased the achievements of the Higher Education Department along with the life and contributions of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, whose birth anniversary is observed as Teachers’ Day in India.
The state-level celebration was attended by several senior officials and dignitaries, including Anandhari Jamatia, Director of the Kokborok and Minority Languages Department; Animesh Debbarma, Director of Higher Education; and L. Darlong, Director of SCERT, among others.
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The event served as a platform to honour teachers and underline their continuing importance in an education system increasingly influenced by rapid technological change. Barman’s remarks placed particular emphasis on the need to combine modern technology with human values, critical thinking and character development.
The celebration concluded with renewed recognition of teachers as key contributors to the development of students and the broader progress of society and the nation.
