Teachers have been entrusted with a responsibility of moulding students who does not carry hatred towards their fellow beings and the society at large. They should set an example to create a younger generation which respects each and every religion, stated President Mahinda Rajapaksa.

He was speaking on the occasion when over 3,000 teachers comprising English medium graduate teachers and College of Education Diploma holders received their appointment letters from President Mahinda Rajapaksa at Temple Trees yesterday (6).

The President added that teachers should be armed with in-depth knowledge of current affairs in the country and the world in addition to theoretical knowledge.

He said that teachers have a great role in promoting the literacy rate from 91 per cent to 100 percent, adding the Government schools faced an acute shortage of English medium teachers though teaching in English has started in a number schools.

He was of the view that the appointment of English medium teachers would fulfill this shortage. He added that the teachers should not give up their studies and further education after they receive appointments to a particular school.

President Rajapaksa also said that teachers are making every possible effort to obtain a transfer to a school nearby their homes since they are appointed as teachers. He was of the view that this trend should be changed.

The President added that the students have a right to education and the teachers should dedicate themselves in addressing their educational needs.

“The teachers deserve special honour from the society as they shoulder the responsibility of creating a disciplined and productive generation to the country,” he said.

The newly appointed teachers will assume their duties on October 17 after the second session of training on October 7 and 9.