As Guyana joined the rest of the world on Sunday in observing World Teacher’s Day, President Irfaan Ali has reminded that every success story begins with a teacher, noting that teachers are the hands that lift up entire generations.
In a message to mark World Teacher’s Day, the President noted the importance to have teachers properly trained. He said his administration will continue to work to ensure every teacher in the classroom is trained.
“In celebrating our teachers, we must also face the truth that our children deserve not just education, but quality education. And quality comes from trained teachers. It is not enough to place a person in front of a blackboard; we must place skill, care, and professionalism there. Our children deserve no less than the best. This is why my government has set a clear and firm goal: by the end of 2026, every teacher will either be trained or in training”, he said.
He said the need to have all teachers trained comes from both policy and personal experience.
Reflecting on his parents, who were both teachers, the President said many teachers have found themselves juggling commitments beyond the classroom.
“I grew up watching them prepare lessons late into the night, marking papers, and carrying their commitment far beyond the classroom. And doing all of this while juggling the responsibilities of parenthood and family life. From them, I learned that teaching is more than a job; it is a labor of love”, Mr. Ali said.
He also encouraged teachers to understand the importance of their jobs.
“Timely marking of scripts and assignments is just as important. It tells students that their work matters, and their effort counts. Feedback is the bridge between effort and improvement. When feedback comes quickly, it builds confidence, corrects mistakes, and keeps learning alive. Marking is not simply grading; it is part of guidance, and it shapes the pace of a student’s growth. But the true power of feedback is realized only when the teacher is there, day after day, guiding, encouraging, and inspiring in person. Nothing replaces the regular and consistent presence of a teacher in the classroom.”
Ali said his Government will continue to work to ensure that a career in teaching is made worthwhile. The President said the Administration remains committed to better pay, improved allowances, and grants to support teaching and learning.
There are more than 15,000 teachers in Guyana with many of them attending training college and others furthering their tertiary education.
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