On October 5 each year, teachers’ organisations worldwide mobilise to ensure that the needs of future generations are taken into consideration.

UNESCO inaugurated October 5 as World Teachers’ Day in 1993. This day represents the appreciation displayed for the vital contribution that teachers make to education and development. Since 2000, the international community has made solid progress towards Education For All. Enrolment rates have increased dramatically. However, UNESCO estimates that 18 million more teachers are needed worldwide if universal primary education is to be achieved by 2015.

The shortage of qualified teachers is considered one of the biggest obstacles to achieving this goal. Accordingly, this year’s activities are focused on professional training for quality education. Teachers’ unions around the world are calling on public authorities to develop and provide adequate training programmes - because teachers matter!