Teacher's Day Ceremony
"Culture of Respect for Teachers Must Take Root"
On May 15, Acting President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Education Jooho Lee stated, "Even in a rapidly changing society driven by advancements in artificial intelligence and digital technology, the value of school education and the role of teachers remain important."
In his commemorative speech at the 44th Teacher's Day ceremony held at FKI Tower in Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul on the same day, Acting President Lee said, "The government will continue to make efforts to create an environment where teachers can become the main agents of educational innovation and fully demonstrate their expertise and capabilities in the classroom, while also working to foster social consensus."
He added, "I feel deep regret and a heavy sense of responsibility that many teachers have lost their pride and morale due to recent infringements on educational activities and school safety accidents. There are still areas in the field where changes are not yet being felt, and there are tasks that need to be improved and supplemented. Social perceptions and culture regarding schools must also change."
He further pledged, "The government will continue to pay special attention and make every effort to ensure that a culture of respect and admiration for school education and teachers takes root throughout our society, and that teachers can take pride in their profession and devote themselves to teaching in a safe and happy environment."
At the ceremony, Acting President Lee and Vice Minister of Education Seokhwan Oh personally presented government awards to 233 individuals and ministerial commendations to 2,968 individuals.
The Hongjo Geunjeong Medal was awarded to five individuals, including Jeonghee Baek, principal of Songpa Wirye Kindergarten in Seoul, who contributed to the realization of integrated early childhood education (integration of kindergarten and childcare services), and Gyubae Lee, a teacher at Daegu Anil Elementary School, who voluntarily guided maladjusted students and contributed to establishing a culture of instructional innovation.
The Nokjo Geunjeong Medal was presented to five individuals, including Okju Na, principal of Hanam Jungang Elementary School, who implemented 'coexistence education' in schools with high concentrations of multicultural students. The Okjo Geunjeong Medal was awarded to six individuals, including Haeran Park, an educational researcher at the Daejeon Institute of Education and Science, who contributed to educational innovation by promoting data-based education policy research.
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