Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders: Teachers Are the Foundation of Values, the Shapers of Awareness, and the Builders of Generations Capable of Contributing to the Progress of Their Nations and the Service of Humanity
The Muslim Council of Elders affirms that teachers are the cornerstone of human development, playing a vital role in shaping the awareness of future generations and building the future of societies. Through their noble mission, teachers not only impart knowledge and learning but also instill values and ethics, while fostering critical thinking, dialogue, and respect for diversity.
In a statement marking World Teachers’ Day, observed annually on 5 October, the Council noted that Islam places great value on knowledge and elevates the status of scholars and educators, regarding the pursuit of knowledge as a pathway to the advancement of both individuals and societies. As Almighty Allah says: “Allah will raise those who have believed among you and those who were given knowledge by degrees”. The Council emphasized that the teacher’s mission is a profound trust and responsibility, given their role in shaping minds, nurturing character, instilling values, and preparing generations capable of contributing to the progress of their societies and the service of humanity.
In this regard, His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders, affirmed that teachers are the architects of future generations, laying the foundation of moral values in the hearts and minds of students and instilling in them the principles of goodness, responsibility, and respect for others. He stressed that the role of teachers extends far beyond the transmission of knowledge; it encompasses character building, shaping awareness, and preparing enlightened generations capable of contributing to the advancement and prosperity of their nations and to the service of humanity.
The statement further noted that education is one of the most effective means of building awareness and confronting ignorance, intolerance, hatred, and extremism. Teachers play a pivotal role in instilling the values of dialogue, tolerance, coexistence, and respect for human diversity in younger generations, while fostering a sense of responsibility and respect for human dignity. Such efforts help safeguard societies against extremist ideologies and strengthen their capacity for understanding, coexistence, and peacebuilding.
The Muslim Council of Elders calls for enhanced international efforts to support and empower teachers, provide them with an enabling educational environment, and ensure their continuous professional development to keep pace with rapid advancements in knowledge and technology. The Council also stresses the importance of guaranteeing access to quality and equitable education for all, particularly in communities affected by wars, conflicts, and crises, affirming that investing in teachers and education is, ultimately, an investment in humanity and in a future that is more secure, stable, peaceful, and conducive to coexistence.