The Premier made the statements during the August 23, 2021, Teachers Professional Day event where he also thanked educators for their hard work and commitment to the development of the students as they continue to live, work, teach and learn amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.

Educators challenged to share inspiration

According to a release on the event, the Premier challenged the educators to take a day out of every week to inspire each other, given that it is their teaching fraternity and family that will help get them through these times.

“I cannot tell you when things are going to get better, but since we cannot work on what is around us, we can work on what is in us. That is the only thing that will help us in this school year and while [the government] takes care of all the situations that must be fixed, I encourage you to take pride in inspiring your students,” he said.

Hon Fahie added, “Words have power, this semester is going to be so trying that it is only going to be the words and the inspiration of each other and your prayers that will get you through.”

Meanwhile, Minister for Education, Culture, Youth Affairs, Fisheries and Agriculture, Dr. the Hon Natalio D. Wheatley (R7) while declaring the 2021-2022 Academic School Year officially opened, reassured teachers of their important role in society.

Meanwhile, Minister for Education, Culture, Youth Affairs, Fisheries and Agriculture, Dr. the Hon Natalio D. Wheatley (R7) while declaring the 2021-2022 Academic School Year officially opened, reassured teachers of their important role in society.

Pandemic sparked new appreciation for teachers - Dr Wheatley

“The COVID-19 pandemic has sparked a new appreciation of teachers, particularly among parents, who were suddenly tasked with teaching responsibilities along with working full-time jobs at the same time," Hon Wheatley further said.

Hon Wheatley told teachers that just as the landscape of education has changed in the Territory, so will the public perception of the importance of educators in VI’s society.