According to Wiseman Langa the organiser, the day was supposed to be celebrated on October 5 but because of the school holidays “the celebration was scheduled for today,” he said.
About the attendance that did not live up to expectation Langa said: “I am disappointed because we did everything right. We invited teachers through the department of education. Honestly, I am not excited about the turnout to this event,” said Langa.
Langa said they wanted to show how much they love teachers.
“We want to show you teachers how much we appreciate the things that you are doing for our children. Teaching is the mother of all professions. Everyone comes from the hands of a teacher, yet people look down upon this profession. The department liked the idea. They even said it is something they are supposed to be doing themselves,” Langa told Kathorus MAIL.
Different speakers praised the teachers for their good deeds.
One of the speakers who gave good advice to the teachers was the head of Vosloorus SAPS, Brig Themba Denge.
He said teachers are arrested every day because of anger.
“We understand the work you are doing in class and that sometimes you happen to lose your temper because of the children you are teaching. We understand that some children are trouble but don’t let them be the reason why you end in jail for inflicting corporal punishment.”
“You are doing a good job. I am a product of your work,” said Denge.