To mark 2025 World Teachers’ Day, a teacher from Central Province reflects on what it truly means to be a teacher and on the training opportunities she received from the Australian Government.
In the heart of Gabagaba village in Central Province, Sibona Badira begins each school day with quiet determination.
For over 25 years, she has been a pillar of early childhood education, shaping young minds with compassion and a deep sense of calling for her profession.
“I started as a Sunday school teacher,” she shares. “
“From there, I became an elementary teacher. I love children and I love teaching, especially the early graders. They had a great impact on my life.”
By the time she reached Grade 10, Badira was a mother and could not complete high school.
Yet her community saw potential in her. When an Australian Government supported training opportunity arose, she was selected to represent her village. That opportunity proved life changing!
“Each year I taught, I realised it was my calling. My grandfather was a teacher too. It’s in my blood.”
Since then, she has dedicated nearly two decades to teaching prep. While many teachers prefer upper grades, Badira has always gravitated toward the foundational years.
“Laying the foundation is like mixing the cement for a house,” she says. “When I see my students topping Grade 8, it’s a bonus for me. I know the future of this country is bright.” Her path has not been without its hurdles.
“One of the biggest challenges I face is getting parents to attend meetings or work parades. Only a handful show up. Yet, when it comes to end-of-term reports, they are quick to raise concerns.”
Absenteeism is another issue she grapples with. Parents often take their children out of school without telling the teachers. Then students return the following year and are expected to continue without repeating.
“At least let us know, so we can come up with a solution. Communication is key.”
Despite these obstacles, Badira remains firm in her commitment.
Her satisfaction comes not from accolades or promotions, but from the small victories: the child who learns to speak confidently, the student who once struggled and now excels, the grateful parent who returns to say thank you.
“I always have in mind; you don’t know if the child you’re teaching today will become a pilot or a doctor tomorrow.”
Badira believes that teachers deserve more recognition and support.
“Teachers should be celebrated in the community. Parents and children should come together to honour them on World Teachers’ Day.
Badira also champions the use of local resources and community involvement. After completing training through Australia’s Partnerships for Improving Education program, Badira returned to her school with renewed energy and practical ideas to strengthen early grade learning. One of the most impactful initiatives she introduced to the school was a classroom library reading club, designed to improve literacy and foster a love for reading among young learners.
The reading club became a bridge between the classroom and the home, encouraging parents to take an active role in their children’s education.
Badira’s message to young and aspiring teachers is that teaching is “heart work”. You work from the heart to inspire minds to think and explore. And, “you light the way to success…you are the backbone of our society.”
