Pretoria - Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga has used the occasion of World Teachers' Day to appeal to educators to revive the spirit of dedication and passion that has for so many years defined the career fondly known as the mother of all professions.
Speaking at the official opening of the new South African Council of Educators (SACE) building in Pretoria, which coincides with World Teachers' Day, Motshekga called on educators to be proud of their profession.
"We are the custodians of education and therefore we must live by example. As a sector, we must get this right," she said.
Motshekga also warned that teachers who abused learners would not be tolerated as this tarnished the values of the profession.
SACE took the opportunity to congratulate South African educators in celebration of the profession, as well as the work they did in educating the nation.
The theme for this year's Teachers' Day celebration is 'Take a stand for teachers'.
Motshekga wished SACE well for the future, and urged the council to do more to improve the education system.
"There are no excuses for not developing the capacity of educators," she said.
Various events are arranged in many countries around the world on or around October 5. These include celebrations to honour teachers in general or those who have made a special contribution to a particular community. - SAnews.gov.za
