- 5 October worldwide
- 5 September in India
- First World Teachers' Day in 1994
Where it began
Respect for teachers is very old. In India the guru has long been honoured, and Guru Purnima is a day to thank one's teachers.
In 1966 a global recommendation on the status of teachers was adopted on 5 October. In 1994 that date became World Teachers' Day.
In India, Teachers' Day has been kept on 5 September since 1962. When students asked to celebrate the birthday of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, a great teacher and later President, he asked that the day be kept for all teachers.
How it grew over time
Ancient India
The guru is honoured, and Guru Purnima thanks teachers.
1962
India begins to keep Teachers' Day on 5 September.
1966
A recommendation on the status of teachers is adopted on 5 October.
1994
The first World Teachers' Day is held on 5 October.
Today
Students thank teachers with cards, flowers and events.
How it is celebrated in different places
India
Senior students often take over classes for the day, and teachers are honoured at school events.
China
Teachers' Day falls on 10 September, with flowers and cards.
Vietnam
Teachers are honoured on 20 November, and former students visit with flowers.
United States
Teacher Appreciation Week in May brings notes and small gifts.
World Teachers' Day moments
World Teachers' Day today
Today the day is a chance to thank teachers old and new. Many people send a message to a teacher who believed in them years ago.
