TEACHERS from up to 10 Schools on Gizo island have gathered in the Western Provincial capital to mark the World Teachers’ Day on Monday.
The theme for this year’s Teacher’s Day is ‘’ Valuing Teacher’s Voice towards a New Social Contract for Education.
Gizo teachers did not celebrate the event on Friday but instead organized their celebration early this week.
The event commenced with a colorful parade from the MSG building to the Anglican Church where a devotion was held before the teachers crossed over to Gizo Primary School Hall where the rest of the program was held.
Speaking at the opening of the celebration, Gizo Community High School Principal Richard Hiva said, “today we gather to celebrate World Teacher’s Day dedicated to honoring the invaluable contributions of teachers around the globe.”
Principal Hiva said this year’s theme ‘’Teacher’s voice Towards New Social Contract For Education resonates deeply with all teachers.
“As teachers, we are the architects of the future, shaping young minds and nurturing the leaders of tomorrow. Our voices, experiences and insights are crucial in crafting an education system that is inclusive, equitable and responsive to the needs of our students and society,” he added.
He said the value of teachers’ voices can be witnessed firsthand in the triumphs of students in living up to their potential.
“We understand their dreams, their struggles and their potentials, our voices therefore are not just important, they are essential.
“When teachers are heard, education policies become more grounded in reality, more effective and more compassionate,” he said.
Principal Hiva said the concept of a new social contract for education calls for a renewed commitment from all stakeholders – government, communities, parents and students – to support and uplift the teaching profession.
“It is a call to recognize the critical role teachers play in societal development and to ensure that we are provided with the resources, respect and professional development we need to thrive.
“As we celebrate today, let us reaffirm our commitment to our students and to each other. Let us continue to advocate for our profession to share our experiences and to collaborate in building systems that truly value and empower every teacher.
‘’Let us remember that valuing a teacher’s voice is not just about listening, it’s about taking action. It’s about creating an environment where teacher’s feel respected and empowered to make a difference. Together, let us move towards a new social contract for education – one that honors and elevates the teaching profession.”
Teachers from Gizo Community School, St Peter, Don Bosco, Nusa Bosco, Emanuel School, Babanga, Gizo CGS Secondary, Titiana Community School, Gizo ECE and Mabuzu Vocational School
The celebration ended with dancing, entertainment and feasting.
By ULUTAH GINA
Solomon Star, Gizo
