OSSTF/FEESO Statement

World Teachers' Day 2022

October 5, 2022 — Today, we celebrate teachers and everything they do as critical members of the education team. The Canadian theme for World Teachers’ Day 2022 is “The Answer Begins with Teachers”. Around the globe, teachers are connected by their passion for education and developing a new generation of educated, empowered, and talented individuals who will become the leaders of tomorrow.

As educators, we were tested and faced numerous challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. No one could predict what would happen next and every day brought a new hardship. Yet, teachers were able to persevere and provided stability for students, families, and communities during an exceptionally uncertain time.

Students received education throughout the pandemic, and this is because of the dedication of teachers and the whole education team. The essential role that educators play in fostering human connections and acting as catalysts for youth to build their identities and explore new interests has never been more important.

As we hopefully begin to come out of the pandemic, our role as advocates for knowledge, inclusion, and understanding is needed in Canada and around the world. As Canadians and global citizens, we must continue to play a vital role in decolonization and be active participants in reconciliation, a process that asks each of us to be truthful and intentional.

Every World Teachers’ Day, celebrations take place globally to help communities and individuals gain a better understanding of teachers and their dedication, passion, and innovative efforts to support student success. We encourage everyone to take part in these celebrations, which you can learn more about on the UNESCO website.

UNESCO proclaimed October 5th as World Teachers’ Day in 1994 in recognition of the crucial role that the teaching profession plays in improving the health of society.