Just over 180 teachers from across the island, who have given a minimum of 35 years of service to education, have been bestowed with the Jamaica Teachers’ Association (JTA) Golden Torch Award this year.
Speaking during the recent awards ceremony at The Jamaica Pegasus Hotel in New Kingston on Friday (July 12), State Minister in the Ministry of Education and Youth, Marsha Smith, expressed gratitude to the recipients for their extraordinary dedication.
“Today, we are honouring a new class of luminaries – educators who, for over 35 years, have faithfully carried the torch of education,” she said.
The state minister also commended teachers for nurturing curiosity, instilling good morals and critical thinking skills, and helping to shape the future of countless students.
She noted that outstanding Jamaicans in the fields of athletics and music, such as Usain Bolt, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, and Bob Marley, have lauded their teachers for the profound role they played in inspiring and mentoring them to choose their professions.
“We celebrate your unwavering commitment. You are the embodiment of the JTA motto – ‘Service First’ – and you are the golden threads woven into the rich tapestry of Jamaican education,” Smith said.
In his remarks, JTA President, Leighton Johnson, noted that the unwavering perseverance and passion of teachers are among the reasons Jamaica’s education system continues to thrive.
“We express our deepest gratitude for your selfless devotion to this noble profession. Your dedication has transcended the mere classroom. It has moved beyond textbook knowledge. You have been mentors, role models, and sources of inspiration to generations of students and other colleagues,” Johnson said.
He shared that, over the years, teachers have adapted to the changing times, advancements in technology, and unforeseen global events that have disrupted the education sector.
“Through it all, colleagues, you have remained firmly committed, tirelessly working to provide quality education – never wavering from your passion and from the mission to unlock the limitless potential within every student who comes across your path,” Johnson stated.
The Golden Torch Award, now in its 31st year, has been bestowed on more than 7,000 educators.
