Danish Bashir Wani
In our society, teachers are considered the builders of a nation. But behind this noble image lies a harsh reality especially for private school teachers who work tirelessly, giving more duties than government teachers, yet receive salaries that can barely support a dignified life.
On one side, we have government teachers who earn up to ₹1 lakh per month, with fixed working hours, job security, and multiple benefits like PF, medical support, and paid leaves. On the other side stand private school teachers, many of whom earn only ₹5,000 to ₹7,000 per month, with no PF, no insurance, no allowances, and often no job security. This difference is not just unfair it is painful.
Despite being highly qualified, private teachers remain silent. Not because they are satisfied, but because they fear losing the only job they have. In a time of rising unemployment, even these low-paying jobs become precious. Teachers continue their duties with dedication while silently worrying about rent, groceries, children’s fees, and daily expenses. Their financial struggles often push them into mental stress, yet they continue shaping the future of thousands of students.
It is ironic that the very people responsible for educating the next generation struggle to afford a respectable life themselves. If teachers are not valued, the entire education system suffers. A demotivated teacher cannot give the best to their students.
Private institutions must take responsibility—better salaries, job security, and basic benefits are not luxuries, but rights. Government policies also need to recognize private teachers as essential pillars of education and create schemes to support them.
If we truly believe that “teachers build the nation,” then it is time we start building a better life for them first. The future of education depends on how we treat those who stand at the front of the classroom every day often unseen, unheard, and underpaid.
