Vietnamese Teachers' Day in the eyes of foreign teachers

Each country has its own way of showing gratitude to teachers. However, Vietnamese Teachers' Day leaves a different impression in the eyes of international friends.

Although UNESCO has chosen October 5th every year as International Teachers’ Day, it is not widely known in Vietnam. November 20th has long been a part of the culture of “Respecting Teachers”, and has attracted much attention from international teachers teaching in Vietnam.

Ms. Alison Mc Donald, after a period of living and working in Vietnam, shared her surprise when she was introduced to November 20. Coming from Scotland and currently an English teacher, she said that Scottish people do not have a fixed day every year to celebrate their teachers. Students often organize small parties or picnics with their teachers after each semester ends.

“Teachers’ Day is a special tradition. Teaching is not an easy job. Not all students come from the same background. Teachers are the ones who teach based on each student’s background and ability. Being recognized for your contributions to education is truly special and appreciated!”, Ms. Alison Mc Donald shared her thoughts on this special occasion.

Ms. Alison Mc Donald.

She also shared her joy when receiving a small gift on Vietnamese Teachers’ Day: “Yesterday, I received a flower basket from a student and her mother. I really cannot describe my feelings. I understand that I receive gratitude from the student’s parents for the efforts in teaching their children.”

Talking about a memorable memory of teaching English in Vietnam, she said: “I had quite young students, often without skills in class. However, after a while, they improved and started speaking English, which was really a gift that all of us, teachers, were looking for.”

Like the Scottish people, Teachers' Day in the US is not as popular as other holidays. Mr. Jason Elliot, who used to teach in Korea and is currently a teacher at an English Center in Hanoi, said, "In the US, we usually choose the first Tuesday of May as Teachers' Day. However, Americans often spend this week to express their gratitude to teachers and many solemn activities will take place during this time."

Mr. Jason Elliot also shared about the joys of being a teacher on this occasion: “Teaching is an interesting job. I have the opportunity to meet many people. Teaching English is not only a job but also a way to understand more about people and culture in each country that does not use English as its mother tongue. I am welcomed by students and called by my name, or seeing the smiles of students after each class, those are memorable memories when teaching here.”

In his opinion, teacher Jason believes that education is one of the most important jobs, so Teachers' Day is like a way to show gratitude to those who have been training the next generations for each country./.

According to VOV