On February 24 every year, the whole world honours teachers on Teacher's Day. Education institutions celebrate and observe this noble occasion in recognition of the service rendered by teachers to humanity.
Teachers hold an honourable position in the society which commands respect. They always deserve high and special regard. Hence, Teacher's Day is marked and characterised by superiority of mind of ideals and morals and is made glorious by bestowing praise and admiration on teachers.
In the Sultanate of Oman, education has always been accorded an exalted status. In his first speech to nation, His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik laid special emphasis on education. Since then, it has had always received due prominence and attention by the government.
Oman Vision 2040, which is regarded as the highest and most supreme plan to guide the country's progress towards achieving various goals, focusing on education as one of its central and fundamental axis with programmes of action.
In Oman, education is available to all citizens free of charge. In 1970s, education was imparted under the shelter of trees, and today there is no wonder to find schools across the country where Omanis dwell, regardless of physical terrains. Schools are built on mountainous areas as well as in cities and villages.
This stems from the government's belief in providing equal educational opportunities without discrimination, which has at all times been marked with firmness and resolution.
Education also occupies the same status in the minds of the people of Oman. Throughout the history Omanis are known for their passion to learn, and strong liking and desire for seeking knowledge while setting a high value for education. Omanis also glorify and praise scholars, who are often held in great esteem and respect.
That is why Omanis always express their feeling of admiration, approval and gratitude to learned persons and to those who possess knowledge. Such a desire, which is marked by forceful energy, stems from the fact that Omanis are not only hardworking, but are prompted to act in accordance with the commands, guidance and the teachings of Islam which urges its followers to seek knowledge and learn.
The first verse that was sent down to our Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) urged him to read.
To conclude, teachers have every right to celebrate this day. People around the world have high regard for teachers and respect them. The day should also serve as a motive for them to devote their efforts to the profession and continue to deliver this noble mission with enthusiasm and the energy.
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