MESSAGES Continue affirming teacher quality

AS A trained teacher and former educational leader, I am very pleased to join the Jamaica Teaching Council (JTC) and the rest of the world in commemorating World Teachers’ Day 2016. Celebrated on October 5 every year since 1994, this vital event acknowledges and promotes the important role teachers play in shaping the minds of future generations.

‘Valuing Teachers, Improving their Status’, is an appropriately chosen theme for this year’s celebrations, especially as it reflects the significance of the UNESCO/International Labour Organisation (ILO) recommendations which marks its 50th anniversary.

The UNESCO/ILO recommendations, which include the declaration of education as a fundamental human right, the acknowledgement of the essential role of teachers to society and the establishment of international standards and defined responsibilities of teachers, have proven vital for the advancement of the profession globally.

Within our local context, the Jamaica Teaching Council has commendably been enacting the UNESCO/ILO recommendations by the emphasis placed on continuing professional development through workshops, conferences and the establishment of Internet- based professional communities. Their annual rewards and recognition programme executed through the Quality Education Circle, Symposium and the annual church service are also important motivational tools for enriching teacher quality.

It is a fact that good teachers inspire hope and ignite the imagination of their pupils. Many teachers have even gone the extra mile to ensure that their students are equipped with the mental and social-skills as well as the innovativeness and self confidence which make them useful citizens. Therefore, it is only fitting that the Jamaica Teaching Council be encouraged to continue affirming teacher quality through their recognition of teacher excellence by way of the activities to commemorate World Teachers’ Day.I use this occasion to extend best regards to all our teachers for continuing to perform above and beyond the call of duty.Happy World Teachers’ Day! SIR PATRICK ALLEN Governor General