Teachers around the world celebrated World Teachers' Day on Sunday, and in a message to mark the occasion, Best said that while they embraced the theme Teachers Matter!, more had to be done.

"If it is accepted that teachers matter, then it is imperative that the following must be given priority:

If teachers matter, then they should be adequately compensated.

If teacher matter, then they should be respected.

If teachers matter, then they should be given security of tenure.

If teachers matter, then professional training for quality education is a must and avenues for retraining should be provided.

If teachers matter, then conditions under which teachers work must be improved.

If teachers matter, then health and safety concerns must be addressed.

If teachers matter, all stakeholders must join with teachers in eliminating the scourge of drugs, indiscipline and the sub-culture which has taken over our main culture.

"The BUT states that teachers matter and therefore every attempt must be made to address these issues. There must be dialogue between stakeholders, including policy-makers, teachers and their organisations," Best stated.

The BUT president thanked teachers for "their caring and dedication to the students, for their hard work and long hours in the classroom, on the playground and in the community. Thank you for your commitment to life-long learning and professionalism." (DS/PR)