Deterioration of teacher-student relationship

Valorous Alexander once said, "For my life, perhaps I owe my biological father a debt; but for living well, my teacher Aristotle made me a true man." Since ancient times, students have demonstrated the utmost respect for their teachers. A teacher, synonymous with a guru, holds a position akin to that of parents. Similarly, teachers often display parental affection, care, and love towards their students. The relationship between teachers and students transcends mere duties and responsibilities; it is a profound bond that sometimes surpasses age and relationship constraints to evolve into friendship.

However, gradually, it seems like this beautiful relationship is heading towards decline, towards deterioration. Almost regularly, newspaper headlines read, 'Students Threatening Teachers,' 'Teachers Threatening Students.'

Yesterday (March 5th), a news article was published that has left us utterly stunned. ' Teacher Shoots Student! Arafat Amin, a student at Shahid M Mansoor Ali Medical College in Sirajganj, was shot by community medicine teacher Raihan Sharif.

Allegations have been made against that teacher, who was the president of the Chhatra League (student wing of the ruling party) at Rajshahi Medical College. Some anonymous students have claimed that the teacher, Raihan Sharif, frequently gave female students video call. They have also alleged that he often carried a pistol. Sirajganj's Additional Police Superintendent (Administration and Finance), Abdul Hannan, has acknowledged the truthfulness of these allegations.

The question is, why would a teacher carry a pistol and engage in violence? On the day of the incident, trivial matters escalated between the teacher and the student. At one point, the teacher lost control of his temper and resorted to firing the gun. Arafat Amin was injured by that bullet. The news is truly terrifying to imagine! There was a time when teachers perhaps brought a cane to the classroom, but now they come with guns! What could be a more ominous sign than this!

Contrary to this incident, on February 13, 2023, it has been reported that a student in Chittagong threatened a college teacher with violence for preventing cheating. Last year, a teacher in Mymensingh wrote on his Facebook status, "Classrooms have turned into battlefields to control. Students don't want to come to educational institutions regularly, nor do they want to attend classes. Those who come to class are not attentive to lectures. Instead of listening to lectures, they are more interested in chatting on smartphones and Facebook."

The discord within society and its impact on educational institutions is evident from the writing of the mentioned teacher. Observing the deterioration of the relationship between teachers and students, it feels as though a shadow of darkness has engulfed the nation's life. Yet, a particular incident remains etched in our memory, reminding us anew of its significance. On February 18, 1969, when students of Rajshahi University took to the streets, violating Section 144, police personnel prepared to open fire on them. At that moment, Rajshahi University's then Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Shamsuzzoha Sir, stepped forward. He pleaded with the students not to fire. He said, "Today, I am stained with the blood of the students. After this, may no bullet hit a student's body without piercing mine." In a turn of events, it was Dr. Shamsuzzoha himself who was shot by the police. Thus, he demonstrated an unparalleled love for the students throughout his life. Dr. Shamsuzzoha's unconditional love for the students not only resonates within the student community but also deeply touches the hearts of the entire nation. Every year, February 18 is observed as Shamsuzzoha Day at Rajshahi University in honor of his memory.

Not just tainted chapters, but such magnificent events involving teachers and students remain immortal in the nation's life. It is through these that a truly beautiful educational edifice will be constructed. And the blessings of educational institutions will spread auspicious messages throughout the nation.