Real honor or formal pressure?

Vietnamese Teachers' Day (November 20) is a special occasion for students and parents to show their gratitude to teachers who have devoted themselves to the cause of education. However, in recent years, the issue of giving gifts on this occasion has become the center of debate. In Buon Ma Thuot City (Dak Lak), in recent days, announcements from some schools about teachers not accepting gifts have attracted public attention, creating many conflicting opinions about the meaning and ways to show gratitude to teachers.

Specifically, according to the leader of the Department of Education and Training of Buon Ma Thuot City, the fact that some schools in the area announced that teachers do not receive gifts on the occasion of November 20 is not a mandatory regulation but shows the orientation of the schools in organizing the holiday in a solemn, meaningful and economical way, suitable to actual conditions.

Vietnamese Teachers' Day (November 20) is a special occasion for students and parents to show gratitude to teachers who have devoted themselves to the cause of education. – Illustration by: IT

In some schools, teachers have proactively sent messages to parents, affirming that the most meaningful gift for them is the progress and good behavior of their students. Typically, one teacher wrote: “For the teaching staff, the most valuable gift is the academic achievements of the students. Therefore, we respectfully ask that parents do not bother to prepare gifts for teachers, so that teachers do not feel embarrassed .”

In addition, meaningful activities such as the “Good Study Week, Good Discipline” movement, painting competitions, and art performances are organized to replace gift giving. These activities not only help students express their gratitude in a practical way but also emphasize the role of knowledge and personal efforts in showing gratitude to teachers.

The news of refusing to accept gifts has received support from a large number of parents and the online community. Many people believe that, in the current economic context, not giving gifts will reduce financial pressure on families in difficult circumstances. More importantly, this contributes to building a clean educational environment, where the true value of Vietnamese Teachers' Day is not affected by material factors.

A parent commented on social media: “I agree with teachers not accepting gifts. This helps families feel less pressured. The most important thing is that our children study well and are obedient, that is the right gift for teachers .”

At the same time, many opinions say that organizing educational activities such as art performances and painting competitions not only helps students better understand the value of gratitude but also encourages creativity and cohesion in the school environment.

Although most people agree with the announcement of refusing gifts, there are still some opinions that giving a small symbolic gift should not be taken lightly. According to them, gifts are a way to express gratitude and care directly, in line with the Vietnamese culture of gratitude.

One parent said: “Teachers’ Day is an opportunity for us to express our gratitude to those who have devoted their hearts to educating our children. A bouquet of fresh flowers or a small gift within the means of each family is not too much and it does not lose the core value of the holiday . ”

In addition, there are concerns that banning or refusing gifts may lose some of the traditional meaning of Vietnamese Teachers' Day. In Vietnamese culture, gifts are not only material expressions but also have spiritual value, expressing affection and respect for teachers.

It is undeniable that teachers play an important role in educating, guiding and building the future for generations of students. They not only impart knowledge but also shape the personality of students, helping them become good citizens. The silent efforts of teachers, especially in the context of many challenges in the education sector, are truly worthy of being honored.

It is easy to see that, in the process of development, each person is influenced by at least one teacher, who has inspired and encouraged us to achieve success. Therefore, Vietnamese Teachers' Day is not only an occasion for students and parents to show gratitude to teachers but also an opportunity for society to re-evaluate the important role of education.

However, honoring teachers should not stop at gifts or words of gratitude on a holiday. To truly show gratitude, it is necessary to directly improve teachers’ working conditions, increase their income and ensure a safe and healthy working environment. That is the most meaningful and sustainable gift that society can give to the teaching profession.

In the current context, giving or not giving gifts should not be the focus of Vietnamese Teachers’ Day. The most important thing is that acts of gratitude must come from a sincere heart and aim at real values.

The problem is not whether to give gifts or not, but how to give gifts. Parents, don't put pressure on yourself! Don't turn the holiday into an occasion for showing off and competing in society. Instead, focus on building a clean educational environment, where teachers are honored not through gifts but through the students' efforts to be good and study well, through generations of students who are increasingly talented and contribute all their talents to the country. That is the fullest meaning of the nation's humane gratitude day.

Source: https://congthuong.vn/tang-qua-nhan-ngay-nha-giao-viet-nam-ton-vinh-thuc-su-hay-ap-luc-hinh-thuc-359581.html