I am pleased to share in the observance of Teachers’ Day, and to convey words of commendation to the thousands of teachers across Jamaica. Teachers get incredible joy in seeing the difference they make as students gain new insights, become more interested in a subject and learn about themselves. Every day, teachers mold the future through impacting their students’ views and understandings.
Teachers foster creativity, develop character, give students lenses with which to view the world and provide students with the skills they need to reach their potential and lead productive lives. Many individuals are attracted to teaching by a sense of service, because they want to make a clear, tangible difference in the lives of others.
The theme being observed this year for Education Week, “Promoting the Teaching Profession: A Beacon of Hope and Inspiration To Our Nation”, is an appropriate one. There can be no quality education without competent and motivated teachers. The Ministry of Education, Youth and Information, calls upon all Jamaicans to recognize the significant role that educators play and continue to play in developing the future of our learners and Jamaica.
As a group of professionals, our teachers and educators, more than any other, have played a most critical role in nation building and transforming the character of the Jamaican society. Teachers deserve our gratitude because they have to go beyond just teaching for good results, in many cases. They also have to care for and counsel students; they have to work in sometimes challenging environments and they have to perform administrative duties.
Today, we laud their selfless sacrifice, commitment to the cause and devotion to duty. May you have a blessed day of reflection and inspiration as you face the challenges and opportunities which lie ahead. Have a truly wonderful Teachers’ Day