Teachers' Day in Thailand

Date:

Teachers' Day in Thailand is celebrated annually on January 16th.

History:

The tradition of honoring teachers in Thailand can be traced back to a royal decree. In 1957, the Thai government officially designated January 16 as Teachers' Day to acknowledge the importance of teachers and their contribution to education and society.

Traditions:

• Wai Kru Ceremony: This is a traditional Thai ritual held on Teachers' Day where students pay respects to their teachers as a way of expressing gratitude and formalizing the student-teacher relationship.
• Award Ceremonies: The government often holds ceremonies to recognize outstanding educators and present awards.
• School Activities: Schools across the country may host special events, such as cultural performances, speeches, and activities that highlight the significance of teachers.
• Alumni Visits: Former students commonly return to their schools to pay respect to their past teachers.

What People Do:

On Teachers' Day, students and alumni typically perform acts of respect towards their current or former educators. This can include presenting flowers, particularly jasmine blossoms which symbolize purity and are considered a sign of respect in Thai culture. Additionally, people often share memories and express appreciation on social media or through personal messages. Educational institutions may also have a day off or engage in activities that celebrate the teaching profession.