Dao Tuan Dat, headmaster of Einstein High School in Hanoi shared his thoughts on the tradition of giving presents on Vietnamese Teachers' Day on November 20.

It is traditional for parents to give their children's teachers gifts on Teacher's Day to express their gratitude. In recent years, though, there has been concern over the practice of giving money instead of gifts, which could be construed as bribery. This year Dat is changing this tradition at his school. He asked that parents refrain from giving gifts, but instead bring rice, which will be used to donate to the less fortunate. 

Parents donating rice to Einstein High School  on Teacher's Day

Is it difficult to stop parents from giving money to teachers? 

There were still some parents that gave money to teachers, but we used it to buy rice and donated one tonne to charity. We believe that the school should also play a role in shaping the character of students. We often hold charity events and take students on trips to Children's Hospital to understand more about disadvantaged children.

What would you say to those who argue that cash gifts are a way for parents to show their gratitude? Do you think this is wrong? 

The tradition of giving presents is not bad. In the old times, poor households gave teachers potatoes or a chicken. But now, they don't know what to buy, so they just give money. As time went by, the tradition has become twisted. If a teacher receives money from parents, he or she may not be less likely to scold that child in class. 

Students at Einstein High School bringing rice to donate on Teachers' Day this year.

Is a teachers salary enough to live from? 

Teachers of key subjects like maths, physics or chemistry can make good money by giving extra classes. Teachers of literature or foreign languages can also live comfortably, but teachers of other subjects are put in a difficult position. I've seen a teacher hide his face in embarrassment one night when I bumped into him working as a delivery man.

Teachers are under a huge amount of pressure. Why can't we see Teachers' Day as an occasion to give them a bit of extra compensation?

No, we shouldn't consider this as a way of improving their income. Like I said, once a teacher receives money, their judgement in class will be compromised. And the money given on this day is not actually so much. Integrity is needed in all careers.

Do you think that ethics is being overlooked in educating our children? 

Many people think that a well-rounded education means students must be good at every subject. Even doctors must study literature. But a complete education means teaching students to be responsible adults with strong characters, healthy habits and good social skills.