Teachers’ Day: Celebrating Integrity in Leadership

On the occasion of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan’s birth anniversary, we are reminded of the noblest ideals of the teaching profession. Dr. Radhakrishnan was not only a distinguished teacher and philosopher but also a statesman who rose to the highest office of the President of India. His life exemplified the harmony of knowledge, humility, and leadership rooted in ethics. For him, teaching was not a mere profession but a sacred calling, a way to shape society through wisdom and integrity. As we celebrate Teachers’ Day in his honour, it is important to reflect on how his ideals must guide our actions and decisions in every educational setting.

Leadership in education carries a profound responsibility. A principal or head of an institution is not merely an administrator but the custodian of values, morale, and the academic spirit of the institution. When leaders rise above personal ambitions and prioritize fairness, the institution thrives. But when decisions are driven by favouritism, insecurity, or neglect of merit, the very foundation of the institution is shaken.

The story of Principal Basu, his talented colleague Trinethra, and the eventual decline of their college is a painful but instructive example. For two decades, Basu depended on the intelligence and dedication of Trinethra. Together, they ensured the smooth functioning of the institution, with Trinethra being the guiding force in critical academic and administrative matters. Yet, when the moment arrived for Basu to hand over the mantle of leadership, he chose to bypass Trinethra, the most deserving candidate. Instead, he handed responsibility to Shakun, a man with neither the capability nor the vision required. The consequences were severe. Trinethra, hurt by the betrayal, left the institution, and Shakun, unable to shoulder the role, resigned within a year. The college, which had once thrived, suffered decline because of one flawed decision. This was not merely a personal misjudgment; it was a breach of trust, one that damaged both colleagues and students who depended on the strength of the institution.

As teachers, we must recognize that our profession rests on the foundation of trust-between teachers and students, between colleagues, and between leaders and their teams. When this trust is broken, it is not only individuals who are hurt but the entire institution that bears the loss. The episode of Basu, Trinethra, and Shakun reminds us that succession in educational leadership is not a matter of personal choice or favouritism but a sacred duty to ensure continuity, stability, and growth.

Dr. Radhakrishnan’s life is a beacon in this regard. His example urges us to practice humility, recognize talent, and uphold merit above personal insecurities. On this Teachers’ Day, let us ask ourselves: do our actions strengthen the values of fairness, wisdom, and integrity in our institutions? Are we leaving behind institutions stronger than we inherited, or weaker because of personal biases?

The lesson is clear. When merit is ignored, institutions falter; when integrity is upheld, they flourish. As we celebrate the legacy of Dr. Radhakrishnan, may we as a fraternity of educators resolve to be leaders who nurture, guide, and inspire-not just for our own time, but for generations to come.