Teachers mould future leaders and spur country’s development

ON Tuesday, we celebrated Teachers Day as a tribute to educators who have contributed to the nation.

This day should be celebrated by teachers and the community, as teachers can help create unity.

We can never deny the role of teachers of all races to inculcate the spirit of unity in students. This is the main reason the government decided to maintain last year’s theme, “Teachers As Nation Builders”.

Teachers’ influence can bring significant impact to a generation. They must be recognised and appreciated.

Teachers are role models and leaders in classrooms.

They set an example for students to emulate in terms of good character.

To teachers, it is not about teaching, but more importantly, it is about education and moulding future leaders.

The role of teachers is becoming increasingly challenging.

As the nation heads for developed nation status, teachers spur the country’s development.

Teachers must be reminded that they should impart noble values, promote unity in schools and religious understanding.

They must always serve with discipline, dedication and commitment.

My hope is that teachers will develop students into individuals who have integrity and noble values as well as moral standards.

The Education Ministry must ensure that there are welltrained teachers to ensure the success of moral education in schools.

Principals and teachers need to be more sensitive to changes students’ behaviour as it can help identify those with depression.

Education Minister Datuk Seri Mahdzir Khalid said the ministry would improve guidelines and focus on the issue of depression among students, and school authorities must curb the problem.

I believe that what is more touching and can make teachers proud is gratitude and their students’ success in life.

Eco World Foundation also appreciates the role of teachers and will continue to improve the standard of education and characters of underprivileged students in the country.

Happy Teachers Day.

TAN SRI LEE LAM THYE Chairman, Eco World Foundation