World Teachers' Day: Celebrating South Africa’s teachers

Celebrated annually since 1994 on 5 October, World Teachers’ Day commemorates the anniversary of the signing of the 1966 UNESCO/ILO Recommendation concerning the status of teachers.

The 1996 Recommendation constitutes the main reference framework for addressing teachers’ rights and responsibilities on a global scale.

This year the day is being celebrated under the theme “Teaching in Freedom, Empowering Teachers”.

The Department of Basic Education has paid tribute to the more than 400 000 teachers employed in the classrooms at more than 25 000 schools.

"Our teachers take care of more than 12 million learners under difficult conditions. We commend our teachers’ dedication and commitment even under heavy criticism at times" says basic education spokesperson Elijah Mhlanga.

Listen:

Teacher Union NEPTOSA has also sent their best wishes. 

The union's Basil Manuel says teachers are in charge of building better communities.

Listen:

COSATU's Sizwe Pamla says teachers continue to dedicate themselves to eliminating illiteracy and all they need is support.

Listen:

This is how people on social media have been honouring their teachers:

Which teacher made a difference in your life? Send that shout out on Twitter @JacaNews!