Windhoek: Prime Minister (PM) Elijah Ngurare on Sunday paid tribute to teachers across Namibia, describing them as primary caregivers in shaping the future of the Namibian child.

According to Namibia Press Agency, Ngurare, in a statement to commemorate World Teachers’ Day, celebrated annually on 05 October since 1994, said, ‘After parents, it is teachers who nurture the next generation of leaders and innovators. Their humanity, sacrifice and dedication make them daily role models in our society.’

The PM reaffirmed government’s commitment to education, saying that President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has directed that the living and working conditions of teachers, particularly in rural and underserved areas, be urgently improved.

He said investing in teachers is fundamental to the country’s long-standing investment in education since independence. ‘On behalf of the government, I extend our profound gratitude. We are proud of you, and you remain the backbone of our nation’s progress,’ Ngurare added.

World Teachers’ Day is marked globally to highlight the critical role of educators in advancing knowledge, development and social justice. It coincides with the anniversary of the 1966 International Labour Organisation and United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (ILO/UNESCO) recommendation concerning the Status of Teachers.