World Teachers’ Day is an opportunity to acknowledge our teachers and say thanks for the significant contributions they make in our classrooms and communities.

Celebrated in more than 100 countries world-wide, including Jamaica, the day which is observed annually on October 5, commemorates teachers’ organizations worldwide.

We thank God for sparing our nation and teachers from the ravages of Hurricane Matthew.

In welcoming the observance of World Teachers’ Day, being recognized under the theme,” Valuing Teachers, Improving their Status”, let me assure Jamaicans of this administration’s continued support for our teachers who continue to build the nation through their resilience, creativity, commitment, tremendous work and untiring service.

Teachers are the cornerstone of the education system and a major influence on the development of our children.

Teachers along with the home, and church, are one of the first avenues through which knowledge is introduced.

As important agents of socialisation and role models for children, our teachers are powerful agents of change in our society, which is in need of radical social change to become a more wholesome, gentler, and more caring society.

The Ministry of Education, Youth and Information (MOEY) through the Jamaica Teaching Council (JTC), has opened new avenues for sustained professional development and improved competencies for all educators.

This will inure to the continuous endeavour for excellence, the raising of aspirations and achievements that will result in beneficial outcomes for all learners.

I urge all Jamaicans to show more respect and appreciation for our teachers. Their task is not an easy one, but one that is necessary and often undertaken under challenging circumstances and with limited resources, even as we expect spectacular results.

Our teachers must see us all as their partners in building an educated nation. On behalf of this grateful nation, the Ministry salutes you on this day of appreciation.

Best wishes for a happy World Teachers’ Day. God Bless You All.

Source: Jamaica Information Service