Motshekga: Teachers remain backbone of education system
The South African Council for Educators (SACE) kicked off its first national teacher conference in Boksburg on Thursday.
Minister of Basic Education Angie Motshekga delivered the keynote address.
She hailed teachers as the backbone of the country’s education system.
“You can’t, even for a single day, have a teacher not at school and not feel the crisis that comes with the absence of teachers. Teachers are the backbone of our education system, and they indeed play a critical role in ensuring that our learners receive the quality education they deserve.”
The minister said teachers play a vital role in combatting social challenges, which often lay outside the education system.
“Teachers are at the forefront of the fight against poverty, inequality, and social injustice. Through their teaching, they can break the cycle of poverty and provide our learners with the tools they need to succeed beyond the classroom. They are leaders and role models in their communities.
“Violence, crime, and poverty continue to create a hostile and unstable environment for teachers, which affects the quality of education they provide to learners. It is crucial that we support our teachers and provide them with the necessary resources. Our teachers need access to mental health services and creating a supportive work environment”.
“The country owes every teacher a debt of gratitude,” added Motshekga.
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