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Different countries celebrate Teacher's Day on different dates around the world
In Malaysia, we know 16 May as a day to appreciate cikgu with cards, flowers, and the occasional pantun tribute. But did you know that most countries around the world don't share this date? In fact, Teacher's Day varies widely depending on local traditions, historical events, or religious calendars.
Here's when and why Teacher's Day is celebrated in other parts of the world:
1. Malaysia celebrates it on 16 May, to mark a key milestone in our education system
For Malaysians, Teacher's Day or Hari Guru falls on 16 May every year. This date was picked to honour the 1956 Razak Report, a key education reform that shaped our national school system as we know it.
While it's not a public holiday, many schools host celebrations like student-led performances, appreciation speeches, and class parties. It's also one of the few days where you might see teachers sitting back while students "take over", usually in a fun, honorary way, of course.
Image via Harian Metro
2. India marks Teacher's Day on 5 September, honouring Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan's birthday
In India, Teacher's Day coincides with the birthday of Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, a former president and respected philosopher. When his students once asked to celebrate his birthday, he suggested that it be used to honour all teachers instead and the tradition stuck.
What stands out most is the custom of students dressing up as teachers and conducting mock classes. It's a playful twist that adds a bit of humour to the occasion, while still showing respect.
Image via President of India
3. Thailand celebrates on 16 January, recognising the importance of educators in society
Thailand's Wan Kru (Teacher's Day) is deeply rooted in Buddhist values. On this day, students participate in a respectful ceremony where they offer flowers and perform the wai gesture (hands are clasped together in front of the chest and a slight bow is made, indicating respect) to honour their teachers.
It's less about grand celebrations and more about spiritual respect. Teachers are seen not just as instructors, but as moral guides, which aligns closely with Thai cultural values.
Image via Thailand Foundation
4. South Korea's Teacher's Day on 15 May is celebrated with a gentle, heartfelt touch
Celebrated on 15 May, this date was chosen to coincide with the birthday of King Sejong's teacher as a nod to the legendary monarch who created the Korean alphabet.
Red carnations are the go-to gift, and in some schools, students even write heartfelt letters to their teachers. Depending on the region, schools may close for the day, but even when they don't, the atmosphere is noticeably more affectionate.
Image via Korea.net
5. Vietnam observes Teacher's Day on 20 November with national pride
Known as Ngày Nhà Giáo Việt Nam, Vietnam's Teacher's Day is a major celebration. Students go all out with poems, songs, and even mini talent shows to honour their teachers.
It's also a popular time for alumni to return to their old schools and visit former teachers, reflecting the country's Confucian tradition of deep respect for educators.
Image via thanhnien
6. Argentina honours educators on 11 September, in memory of Domingo Faustino Sarmiento
This date marks the death of Domingo Faustino Sarmiento, a former president and the father of Argentina's public education system. Instead of celebrating his birthday, the country chose his death anniversary as a day of tribute and reflection.
School ceremonies and educational discussions mark the occasion, making it both solemn and intellectually engaging.
Image via Britannica
7. Iran celebrates Teacher's Day on 2 May to commemorate a martyr for education
Teacher's Day in Iran falls on 2 May in remembrance of Morteza Motahhari, a prominent Islamic scholar and teacher who was assassinated in 1979.
The day carries strong emotional and spiritual weight, with teachers seen as moral and religious educators as well as academic ones. It's a more serious and reverent occasion compared to lighter celebrations elsewhere.
Image via Iran Chamber Society
8. China's Teacher's Day used to be in June, but it's now celebrated on 10 September
Teacher's Day in China has had a few date changes over the years. It was first celebrated in June during the 1930s under the Nationalist government (KMT). For a while, it even shifted to 27 August — Confucius' birthday — though that didn't stick around for long. The current date, 10 September, was officially set in 1985 to better match the school calendar.
Chinese students typically show appreciation by writing notes, cleaning the classroom, or preparing small performances. However, there's ongoing debate about whether the holiday should return to Confucius' birthday on 28 September.
Image via China Daily
9. Turkey celebrates on 24 November to honour the founder of modern Turkish education
In Turkey, Teacher's Day is dedicated to Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, who was declared the "Head Teacher" of the nation. The date commemorates his adoption of the new Turkish alphabet and broader education reforms.
Since 1981, 24 November has been a time to honour teachers with school events, awards, and national appreciation campaigns.
Image via Britannica
10. Established by UNESCO in 1994, World Teachers' Day on 5 October highlights the global importance of educators and their role in shaping the future
More than 100 countries officially celebrate on this day, though many, like Malaysia, India, and Vietnam continue to observe their own local dates. Either way, it's a shared reminder that teachers truly are the backbone of every society.
Image via United Nations
No matter the date, every country has its own beautiful way of showing gratitude
Whether it's through reciting poems, performing skits, or offering carnations, the role of a teacher is held in deep respect. And maybe that's the real lesson here, that gratitude, like knowledge, is meant to be shared widely and often.
Image via Teach for Malaysia/The Malaysia Voice
