Unity is Strength

 
Unity is Strength

I am sure you would agree with me that in today’s world, collaboration and unity are more important than ever. As we know, human civilization has progressed not just through individual brilliance but through collective efforts. The Sanskrit adage Sanghe Shakti Kalau Yuge—which translates to Strength in Union in Kaliyuga—perfectly encapsulates this idea. This phrase originates from Hindu scriptures, emphasizing the importance of unity and collective effort in the age of Kaliyuga. I think this wisdom is particularly relevant today, especially in professional and academic communities such as English Language Teacher Associations (ELTAs).

It is well known that organizations hold the key to strength in modern times. In my opinion, professional associations like ELTAs play a crucial role in bringing teachers together to share knowledge, innovate, and support one another. They say that an individual can go fast, but a group can go far. This rings true in the context of educational and professional development.

The news has it that language teacher associations have been around since the 1960s, with the purpose of fostering collaboration among educators. People say that these associations have helped educators grow by providing platforms for networking and resource sharing. Experts say that when teachers unite, they can influence policies, advocate for better educational standards, and create a strong support system for professional development.

Nevertheless, it is my belief that these organizations have not always received the recognition they deserve. For many years, despite their growing influence, ELTAs remained largely outside the mainstream research discourse. It was only after publications such as the ELT Journal’s special issue in 2016 and Elsheikh et al.’s 2018 anthology that they began to receive serious academic attention. I like the idea of institutions recognizing the power of collaboration and the impact of collective professional development.

I must admit that I admire the work of Professor Dr. Laxman Gnawali in this field. As someone who has dedicated his career to fostering teacher education and professional development, his leadership in setting up graduate programs and promoting ELTAs has been remarkable. I am not sure, but I have read somewhere that strong leadership in such associations can make a significant difference in shaping the future of education.

What we all know and agree upon is that disorganization has historically led to defeat. If we look at history, disunity has often been the cause of downfall for many societies. My conviction is that in the age of AI and rapid globalization, professionals—including educators—must come together to adapt, learn, and support one another.

I somehow think that ELTAs are a modern manifestation of the ancient wisdom in Sanghe Shakti Kalau Yuge. Just as unity has historically helped communities thrive, today, teacher associations serve as pillars of strength for educators worldwide. I know you would agree with me that in an ever-changing world, unity remains a powerful tool for progress.

In conclusion, I guess it is safe to say that Unity is Strength is more than just a phrase; it is a principle that has guided human progress for centuries. From ancient wisdom to modern professional networks, the power of working together remains undeniable. My hope is that we continue to embrace this spirit of collaboration, learning from the past and building a stronger future for all.