Mr. Speaker, UNESCO has designated October 5 World Teachers Day, in order to make people aware of the vital role played by teachers, who dedicate their lives to educating our children.
Throughout Canada, many organizations representing teachers, local associations and schools have planned specific activities to mark this special day.
Teachers today are confronted with some of the greatest challenges they have ever faced. In a world of rapid social and economic change brought about by new information technology and globalization, in a world of wealth for some and excruciating poverty for millions of others, education is our hope for the future.
As the vanguard of the education sector, teachers play a remarkable role in preparing and training future generations.
Education is an investment in the future of individuals and societies.
I wish to commend teachers for their valuable work.