Teacher by Choice not by Chance - Prof K V Rama Rao

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Our IIB team had a nice conversation with Senior Professor Rama Rao. You can have a look

1. Who inspired you or what inspired you, to become a teacher?

I am a teacher by choice, not by chance. It was my mother who inspired me to become a teacher. Her patience, kindness, empathy, and humour showed me how much of a difference a good teacher can make in a child’s life. She is the reason I chose this profession.

2. What happiness do you derive while you teach?

Teaching is an art, and for me, it is one of the most satisfying forms of creativity. As an Accountancy teacher, I love solving problems without even looking at the book, and when the balance sheet finally tallies, that moment gives me immense joy. But more than that, I find happiness in seeing my students understand a concept, overcome a challenge, or grow in confidence. That’s what keeps me motivated.

3. Mention a few challenges you are facing as a teacher.

In the early part of my career, convincing students was a big challenge. I’m a commerce postgraduate, and back then, we were not eligible to pursue a B.Ed., so I began teaching without formal training. I learned methods and techniques from senior colleagues and through experience. Today, technology and changing student attitudes bring new challenges. Gen Z students think and learn differently, but I take it as an opportunity to keep learning from them. I’ve also upskilled myself through workshops and seminars, and at the age of 60, I’m pursuing my PhD. I truly believe teaching is lifelong learning.

4. Tell us about your teaching experience and the subjects you have taught.

I have taught commerce and management subjects for over 35 years, mainly at Vijaya College, Bengaluru. Over these decades, I’ve had the privilege of teaching more than 30,000 students and working with several reputed colleges in South Bengaluru.

5. How do you see the difference between students of previous years and today’s generation?

Earlier, there was a deep bond of respect between teachers and students, which we called the guru–shishya relationship. Students were disciplined and valued the teacher’s role in their lives. Today, I feel that the relationship has changed. Many students see education as a transaction: “We pay fees, you teach.” However, they are also more aware, independent, and curious. Every generation is different, and as teachers, we must adapt and evolve.

6. What are your suggestions for someone who wants to become a teacher?

Teaching is a noble profession. If you want to enter this field, do it out of passion, not just for money. This career gives you the rare satisfaction of serving society and shaping lives. But if you enter it only for financial gain, you may never feel fulfilled.

7. Who is your favourite teacher or the one who inspired you the most?

There are many teachers I admire, but one who truly inspired me is M. S. Somashekar, who used to teach Income Tax at Yuvaka Sanga. He conducted free revision classes for B.Com students, often with more than 1,500 students attending. He was humorous, humble, and deeply knowledgeable. His dedication to helping students, especially those from lower-middle-class backgrounds, left a lasting impression on me. Even today, I try to follow his example in my own teaching.

Final Reflection:

For me, teaching is not just a job; it’s a journey of learning, unlearning, and relearning every day. Every student teaches me something new, and that’s what keeps this profession so meaningful.

You can connect to Prof.Rama Rao, MCom, MBA Finance, (PhD)

+91 9341410009

 Email - kvramarao28@gmail.com