Appreciating teachers!

Teaching is the most important single profession in the world. Teachers pass on knowledge, morals and skills to children to prepare them to become responsible citizens.

Unfortunately, this important profession does not get the require recognition it deserves. Teachers train presidents, ministers, directors, medical doctors, journalists, engineers, among others.

The occasion of World Teachers Day, which will be marked in the country by The Gambia Teachers Union on 9th October, is another opportunity to recognize the efforts of our teachers.

This day was set aside by ILO/UNESCO not only to celebrate the invaluable achievement and contributions of teachers and other education workers in national development, but also to reflect on their conditions of service.

Held annually on October 5th since 1994, it is commemorated by teachers' organizations worldwide, and its aim is to mobilise support for teachers.

As we celebrate World Teachers Day this year, we commend the entire teaching fraternity for the good work they are doing, while challenging them to remain committed in providing quality public education for all children in The Gambia.

The theme for this year's celebration is "Recover Begins With Teachers". The major highlight of the event will be a symposium to be held at the Gambia College Brikama Campus, on Saturday 9th October at 10:00 am prompt.

We wish to join the Gambia Teachers Union (GTU) to congratulate all teachers for their unswerving support and commitment in ensuring quality public education for all.

We further use the occasion to challenge all teachers in the country to continue to work hard in ensuring quality and relevant education for our young people.

Also, we urge all members of society to appreciate the valuable contribution of teachers, some of whom are serving under difficult circumstances, in remote areas of the country.

The government through the ministries of Basic and Secondary Education as well as High Education should endeavour to improve the condition of our teachers by providing them with more pay, staff quarters, among others.

The two ministries should ensure that the quality of the teaching staff, in particular, is not compromised at any cost; otherwise it would undermine our drive to attain quality education.

Bravo Gambian teachers!