WORLD TEACHERS' DAY OCTOBER 5TH

HAPPY WORLD TEACHERS' DAY!

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and the
Education International (EI) jointly sponsor and promote World Teachers’ Day (WTD).
UNESCO inaugurated October 5th as World Teachers’ Day in 1993. WTD represents the
appreciation felt by the world body for the vital role played by teachers in education and in
national development. OSSTF/FEESO has supported World Teachers’ Day for many years with
a number of activities.

The main theme this year is “Teachers Matter.” The shortage of qualified teachers is considered to be one of the greatest obstacles to the provision of the United Nations’ goal of providing universal primary education by 2015. Since 2000, the international community has made solid progress toward this goal of “Education for All.” Enrolments have increased dramatically but a staggering 18 million more teachers are needed now if universal education is to be achieved. With this in mind, teachers’ unions throughout the world have focused their demands on increased professional training because – “Teachers Matter.”

Teachers indeed matter in District 21! Our members play a vital role in their schools, worksites, and in the community---and consequently in the lives of students. The celebration of World Teachers' Day acknowledges teachers' commitment to quality education, and the essential role of teachers right around the globe.