C Ponnuswamy, 65, a visually challenged teacher, is popular among students for his style of teaching. He taught Political Science at Government Arts College for 30 years, before he retired last year.
On Teachers’ Day, Ponnuswamy was feted by Akhil Bharathiya Vidyarthi Parishad on Wednesday. Speaking about his experience, Ponnuswamy said, “I lost my vision when I was a five-year-old. Only due to the efforts of my teachers, I have reached these heights. Being visually-impaired, I may not identify my students, but they identify me and wish me. The happiness which I get from that is immense.”
Prof Ponnuswamy lamented that in today’s competitive world, number of students willing to become teachers was dwindling. He said more students should take up teaching.
“With the advent of online education platforms, the relationship between gurushisya is missing. A teacher is one who inspires students and motivates them. He/she develops emotional attachment with students. But with online education, listening to recorded lectures etc, there is practically no guru-shisya relationship,” said K M Kaveriappa, executive director, Karnataka State Higher Education Council.
Prof R Venkatarao, vice-chancellor of National Law School and others were present.