BY MORRIS NAFU
Minister of Education and Human Resources Development (MEHRD), Tozen Leokana calls on teachers across the Solomon Islands to work together for the sake of their students, stressing that collaboration is key to shaping the nation’s future.
He raised this while delivering the keynote address at the World Teachers’ Day celebrations at the National Auditorium on Friday, October 3, 2025.
While the international theme for 2025 is “Recasting Teaching as a Collaborative Profession”, this year’s theme chosen by the local organising committee is “Transformation of Education Begins with Teachers’ Recognition”.
The minister joined teachers worldwide to mark the annual occasion, which is usually observed on October 5. This year, with the date landing on a Sunday, celebrations were moved to Friday for local convenience.
Leokana expressed that “World Teachers’ Day” is a special time to celebrate the most vital job of all—the one that molds every other career.
“It’s our chance to reflect on the dedication, hard work, and guidance our teachers provide, lighting the way for today’s kids and tomorrow’s leaders,” he said.
The Minister highlighted “collaboration” and “recognition” as the bedrock of educational progress and encourages teachers to foster teamwork through three practical ways.
-Training: Weave in peer support, joint teaching, and guidance programs into professional growth.
-Technology: Use online tools to link up teachers from different areas and subjects.
-Leadership: Get teachers involved in school decisions and promote them into guiding roles.
He emphasised that by focusing on training, technology, and leadership, we can reshape teaching into a true team effort.
Shifting to the homegrown theme, he reiterated the government’s promise that real change in education starts with honouring teachers properly.
“Recognition is about appreciating your efforts, listening to your ideas, and looking after your well-being. It’s something you earn through your daily commitment, enthusiasm, and skill in building our children’s—and our country’s—tomorrow,” said Leokana.
The Minister also gave assurance that the Government of National Unity and Transformation (GNUT) is working hand-in-hand with MEHRD, the Solomon Islands National Teachers Association (SINTA), and other partners, to better the job terms of teachers, for more training options and robust support networks.
“These efforts won’t happen overnight—there are big hurdles to clear. But together, one step at a time, we’ll keep the spark that teachers bring burning bright,” he said.
Photo: Supplied
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