The Role of Teachers in Implementing Quality Education at the Secondary Level for Achieving Sustainable Development Goal 4: An Analytical Study Based on Students’ Perceptions

Background: Quality education is essential for the sustainable development of any country and is a continuous process in which teachers play a central role. Through the proper discharge of their responsibilities, teachers can ensure students’ academic achievements, helping them to become humane, socially responsible, and globally competent citizens. Objectives: The primary objective of this study is to analyze the role that teachers should play, from the perspective of students, in ensuring quality education at the secondary level within the framework of SDG 4 implementation. Materials and Methods: This was a mixed-method study incorporating both qualitative and quantitative approaches. A total of 203 students were selected through random sampling to collect primary data. The data collection tools included structured questionnaires, interviews, and Focus Group Discussions (FGDs). Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS software, while qualitative data were analyzed manually through coding and categorization. Triangulation methods were used to validate the results. Results: The findings reveal that teachers play the most crucial role in ensuring quality education at the secondary level. Ethical conduct, a strong sense of responsibility, and professional competence among teachers contribute significantly to achieving quality education in the classroom. However, students reported that the education they currently receive does not meet their expectations of quality. Conclusions: As teachers are key agents in the implementation of SDG 4, it is imperative that they are adequately equipped to deliver quality education in the classroom. Therefore, the state must take appropriate measures to provide necessary training, support, and structural reforms to ensure effective implementation.