On October 4, 2024, UST General Santos held a grand celebration of Teachers’ Day, honoring its inaugural academic staff. It was a day dedicated not only to recognizing the role of educators but also to celebrating the unseen efforts of the support staff who quietly ensure the institution runs smoothly.
The celebration began with a solemn Mass, led by Fr. Edmund C. Nantes, O.P., where educators and staff gathered to reflect on the example of the greatest teacher of all—Jesus Christ. They were reminded that to teach is more than just sharing knowledge; it is a calling to live as Christ did, embodying empathy, humility, and service. The teachers of UST General Santos were called to be more than subject experts. They were encouraged to lead with their lives, to become reflections of Christ’s compassion and wisdom, nurturing not just the minds but the hearts of their students.
Fr. Nantes spoke of the sacred bond between teacher and student, likening it to humanity’s relationship with its Creator. Without connection, both teachers and students are left adrift. To truly guide their learners, educators must forge relationships built on trust, understanding, and genuine care. It was a reminder that teaching is not simply about imparting facts, but about shaping souls.
In a lighthearted twist, students paid tribute to their mentors with a comical skit, playfully imitating the teachers’ unique styles and quirks in the classroom. The performance brought laughter and joy to the room, allowing the educators to see themselves through the eyes of their students—a rare and touching gift.
The day’s festivities culminated with the presentation of inaugural medals to the academic and support staff, a symbolic gesture of honor for their dedication to the Tomasian community. Each medal represented not just the work they do but the values they instill in their students, the legacy they leave behind.
Through it all, UST General Santos reaffirmed its place as a leading institution, not only in academics, sports, and research but in cultivating a culture of excellence, empathy, and service. The day was a reminder that education is not just a profession—it is a lifelong mission.
