Speech by Margaret Gabriel (Form 6)
Wilson Inia Day 2014

Nelson Mandela once said, and I quote, "Education is the most powerful weapon that can be used to change the world," unquote. The invited guests, chiefs of Rotuma, Principals, members of the staff, parents and well wishers. Noa‘ia, bula vinaka and a warm greeting to you all.

It is indeed my profound pleasure to elaborate on the theme for todays celebration: "HONOURING FORMER TEACHERS."

First of all I would like commend the principal for this thoughtful gesture in acknowledging former teachers for their contribution towards education, but most importantly in educating children here in Rotuma. Teachers are working very hard behind the scene in a child's education but are rarely or never acknowledged. At times when students succeed, the society often congratulates the students but fail to commend those who have motivated the children to aspire. I believe that teachers would appreciate a 'thank you' coming their way. Tonight some 3 billion people will go to bed hungry – 4 billion will go to bed hungry for acknowledgement. Remember one of the greatest human needs is acknowledgement. Teaching is a profession unlike any other. It is a way of life, a passion and a calling. Teachers just do not teach in the classroom, they are teachers everywhere. Every child is a student and every opportunity is a teachable moment. Being a teacher means a lot because, although a policeman saves a crime, a lawyer saves a criminal, a doctor saves a life, but you, as a teacher saves them all. The role of teachers are very important and needs to be acknowledged. The retired teachers present today can sit back and proudly say that they have done their part because there many Rotumans whom they have educated and are or have been successful. Every teacher has a success story that sometimes is never commended. Our teachers are important and need to be acknowledged. We commemorate the vision by Wilson Inia, the founder of this institution who has contributed a lot towards education and development in Rotuma. I believe he had an effective teacher because some of his morals are still being administered in classrooms to date. He saw the need to educate his people and at the same time preserve their culture and identity that is greatly challenged by western values. Teachers are role models and should never be taken for granted. To the former teachers present today, I salute you for the work you have done. Thank you for the tremendous contribution.