Global challenges such as the climate crisis, social inequality and violent conflict continue to place the focus on the importance of education as the only way to resolve these challenges. To increase awareness around this,  the theme for this year’s celebration of World Teachers’ Day is “The transformation of education starts with teachers”. According to UNESCO, education has always had an important role to play in the transformation of society. To create a sustainable future, the education sector has to transform as well. 

“Teachers who are trained to adapt to change provide learners with the opportunity to see challenges as opportunities,” says Dr Jaco Deacon, CEO of the Federation of Governing Bodies of South African Schools (FEDSAS).

Deacon says the world needs experts now more than ever. “The future experts are in their classrooms now and their success depends on quality education. The key to quality education is teachers. We must ensure that teachers have access to the resources they require, whether equipment or training. It is each country’s duty to see to it that the education workforce is professional and motivated. As part of this motivation, it is also important that we honour teachers who make an exceptional contribution.”

World Teachers’ Day is celebrated annually on 5 October. In South Africa, this date is during the school holiday, and the day is therefore celebrated before or after the school holiday. For several years, FEDSAS has celebrated the day on the first Friday of the fourth term. “This year FEDSAS is joining hands with the ATKV to honour passionate teachers. We encourage governing bodies, parents, learners and other stakeholders to start planning now for the celebration of World Teachers’ Day at their school. Do something special and fun!” 

Deacon encourages everyone to use social media to honour educators who make a positive impact by sharing the hashtag “thankyouteacher" on FEDSAS’ platforms, including Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Instagram.