31 years in the classroom: A teacher’s legacy lives on

The face may have changed with the passing years, but the voice is often familiar.

“Miss, do you remember me?”

For Ms Kulawi Buni, such unexpected encounters with former students—in banks, hospitals, airports and other places—have become some of the most treasured moments of her 31-year teaching career.

As the world marks World Teachers’ Day on October 5, Ms Buni’s story offers a glimpse into the lasting impact teachers can have long after their students leave the classroom.

Now teaching at Zifasing Junior High School in Wampar, Huon Gulf District, Ms Buni has spent more than three decades serving in the education sector.

Her career has taken her across several provinces and regions of Papua New Guinea, including the Eastern Highlands, West New Britain, East New Britain, the Autonomous Region of Bougainville and her home province of Morobe.

Across those postings, she has taught generations of students who have since taken different paths in life.

Today, some of those former students are professionals working in banks, hospitals and other institutions. For Ms Buni, seeing them succeed is one of the greatest rewards of being a teacher.

But it is often the unexpected encounters that mean the most.

A former student recognising her in a public place, approaching her with gratitude or simply reminding her of the role she played during their school years is a powerful reminder that the work of a teacher extends far beyond the classroom.

For Ms Buni, those moments make the long years of teaching worthwhile.

Her 31-year journey has not simply been about delivering lessons or completing the school year. It has been about nurturing young people, encouraging them to believe in themselves and preparing them for life beyond school.

“I love moulding and shaping the elites of our great nation, Papua New Guinea,” she says.

Her words capture what has kept her committed to the profession for more than three decades.

For teachers like Ms Buni, success is not measured only by examination results or academic achievements. Sometimes, it comes years later, when a former student walks up, remembers their teacher and says thank you.

On October 5, World Teachers’ Day, her story is a reminder that while students may leave the classroom, the influence of a dedicated teacher can remain with them for a lifetime.