On Sunday morning, Minister of Education, Culture, Youth Affairs and Sports Hon. Silveria Jacobs, attended a special service for teachers organized by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth Affairs and Sports at the Good News Baptist Church in Philipsburg.
The service featured songs of inspiration by the Praise and Worship group of the church, led by Teacher Sharon Pantophlet-Gilson.
Minister Jacobs addressed the congregation with congratulatory remarks, and asked all stakeholders to "Take a stand for Teachers". She commended the teachers for their hard work and dedication to the well-being if their students.
She also urged teachers to continue to dedicate their lives to meeting the needs of their students. Teachers were also encouraged to strive to achieve professionalism, upgrade themselves, and remain humble, and to inspire the next generation of teachers.
"Though we live and teach in challenging times, with cooperation between home and school – parents and teachers, our children will be successful.
"All stakeholders must make a stand for teachers:
– Government by setting policies, providing for their needs and proper facilities as well as opportunities for professional development;
– the community, civic groups and businesses, by being supportive and volunteering time and finances;
– the teachers themselves by standing with each other and for each other, by inspiring others to be teachers and communicating with other stakeholders;
– the parents by supporting teachers, teaching morals and values at home, communicating regularly with the school and teacher, and volunteering in the school;
– the students by trying their best, recognizing that their teachers are there for them, being determined to succeed and cooperating with their teachers."
Minister Jacobs urged all to work together today to prepare our students for the future they will inherit.
An inspiring message was also brought by SMUMF representative Aster Allen, and the riveting sermon was rendered by Minister Sharon van Arneman who gave teachers five steps to deal with discouragement using the acronym T.E.A.C.H.
Pastor John ended the service with a special song "I just can’t give up now" by Mary Mary, and prayer for all persons present who are involved in education.