Valuing teachers and supporting their work: this is the message from San Marino’s Secretariat of Education on the occasion of World Teachers’ Day, celebrated today, 5 October. Secretary of State Teodoro Lonfernini emphasized teachers’ contribution to shaping young people, from building skills to developing the ability to face global challenges and participate responsibly in community life.
“Recognizing the importance of the role teachers play in the development of the societies of the future is the fundamental first step for any country,” Lonfernini said. The commitment of the institutions involves training tools and adequate facilities, along with strengthening the relationship between schools and families. “Only through a cohesive educational alliance that respects each party’s role will it be possible to support teachers’ mission, guaranteeing them the centrality and recognition they deserve, both in terms of policy direction and within the everyday social fabric.”
On the international stage, UNESCO, UNICEF, the ILO and Education International are calling on governments to improve conditions within the profession and provide teachers with the resources they need to help build more inclusive, peaceful and sustainable societies. The celebration at UNESCO headquarters in Paris is focusing on salaries, workloads, social recognition and participation in decision-making.
This year also marks the 60th anniversary of the 1966 ILO/UNESCO Recommendation concerning the Status of Teachers. The document is currently under review to address new challenges in education linked to digital technologies, climate change, inclusion and migration.
