Harbel, Margibi County ~ The Firestone Teachers Welfare in Harbel joined millions worldwide in commemorating World Teachers’ Day, an annual event dedicated to recognizing the tireless dedication and invaluable contributions of educators. This year’s celebration, held on Monday, October 6, at the Harbel Field House, brought together teachers, school administrators, and staff from the Firestone Education Department in a spirited event that combined reflection, recognition, and renewal of commitment to the teaching profession.
Under the local theme, “Celebrating Teachers and the Spirit of Pan-Africanism,” the gathering emphasized the pivotal role teachers play not only in shaping young minds but also in fostering a shared sense of unity and progress across the African continent. The event featured a vibrant panel discussion exploring education’s role in social development, cultural identity, and the future of Africa’s youth.
One of the highlights of the day was the certification ceremony, where thirty-one exemplary educators were honored as Outstanding and Most Cooperative Teachers of the Year within the Firestone School System. The ceremony recognized those who have demonstrated exceptional dedication, professionalism, and collaborative spirit throughout the academic year.
Among the distinguished honorees were Mr. Clarence M. Blama, awarded Most Cooperative Teacher, and Madam Elizabeth W. Toe, recognized as Outstanding Teacher from Division Seven Elementary School. From Division Ten Junior High School, Mrs. Monica Sumo received the Most Cooperative Teacher award, while Mr. Alphonso Gibson was celebrated as Outstanding Teacher. These awards were met with warm applause and serve as a motivation for educators across the region.
In his remarks, Mr. J. Enoch Brooks, President of the Firestone Teachers Welfare, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the awardees for their exemplary work. He encouraged them to maintain their commitment to excellence while challenging all teachers to intensify their efforts in the coming year to uplift the standards of education in the Firestone community.
“We celebrate you today not just for your achievements, but for the spirit of dedication that fuels our schools,” Mr. Brooks stated. “Let us all strive to make 2026 a year marked by even greater collaboration, innovation, and impact in education.”
Mr. Brooks also reassured members of his continued dedication to enhancing the welfare of teachers, promising initiatives aimed at improving working conditions and professional development opportunities in the years ahead.
World Teachers’ Day, established by UNESCO in 1994 and celebrated every October 5, honors teachers worldwide for their critical role in education and societal development. This year’s global theme, “Recasting teaching as a collaborative profession,” aligns closely with the local emphasis on Pan-African unity, underscoring the need for shared responsibility and teamwork among educators everywhere.
As the Firestone Teachers Welfare joins this global celebration, the event stands as a powerful reminder of the pivotal role teachers play in shaping a better future ~ one student at a time.
