02 Jun 2021

 President Dr Mokgweetsi Masisi is expected to virtually deliver the keynote address at World Teachers Day tomorrow.

 Botswana Teachers Union (BTU) and the Ministry of Basic Education will celebrate the day under the theme: Teacher, key to education, health and prosperity in the new normal.

In an interview, BTU publicity secretary, Mr Botshelo Tupane said the day was celebrated on October 5 annually, but that Botswana chose the first Friday of June. 

He highlighted that the day had been celebrated since 1966 after the International Labour Organisation (ILO) and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO)’s recommended that teachers should be recognised for their work and efforts.

The two organisations also made pronouncements on the status of teachers, which included their rights and responsibilities, further education, recruitment, employment as well as teaching and learning conditions.

Mr Tupane noted that the formation of Botswana Professional Teaching Council to regulate the profession was one of the developments that would enhance this year’s  celebrations.

He advised teachers to take aspects of their profession which could grow them into consideration as they celebrated the day. He added that professional commitment was crucial in bettering the service. 

He said they aimed for efficiency and effectiveness in delivering their mandate, and that it was time for Botswana to benchmark in countries with high standards of education in order to improve the local education system. He added that quality education would assist in growing the economy and improving the country’s image.

Pertaining to the number of teachers affected by COVID-19, Mr Tupane said it might be attributed to the number of people in schools and the improper use of masks.

He urged teachers to take all precautionary measures against the virus. 

“As we celebrate our day, let us keep in mind our colleagues who lost their lives due to this pandemic,” he said.

Mr Tupane also urged government to include tertiary institutions educators or lecturers in the celebration of the day. 

He noted that some of their members were lecturers and educators, but that they were not considered for awards since they were not regarded as teachers. Meanwhile, some awards, which will be handed over by Minister and Assistant Minister of Basic Education, Mr Fedelis Molao and Ms Nnaniki Makwinja respectively will be for last year since the day was not celebrated due to COVID-19 restrictions. ends