'Berguru Demi Ilmu, Bina Generasi Baharu' (Learning for Knowledge, Shaping a New Generation) is the theme for the 49th national-level Teachers Day celebration this Saturday (May 16).

Education Ministry said in a statement yesterday, the theme touched on the role of teachers in empowering knowledge and professionalism to build a new generation that could meet the goals of the National Education Philosophy.

"Teachers Day is celebrated on May 16th every year to acknowledge and honour the contributions and sacrifices of teachers in educating, guiding and shaping our children.

"Teachers are people who are always hungry for knowledge and will not get tired of equipping themselves with a wide range of knowledge, skills and values in line with the principle of lifelong learning.

"In the context of learning, knowledge must be obtained from someone who has the expertise or authentic skills and based on correct and credible source," said the statement.

It said students need to realise that no one would achieve success in this world without the presence of teachers who also shape the character and personality of a person.

Meanwhile, Education Minister Dr Mohd Radzi Md Jidin launched the celebration theme by appearing in a short video yesterday.

In the 2.16-minute video posted on all official social media sites of the ministry, Mohd Radzi also shared his own learning experience since primary school in Ketereh, Kelantan.

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His schooling began at Sekolah Kebangsaan Seri Ketereh, Kota Bharu, before he attended secondary education at Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Ketereh, and later at the Royal Military College (RMC), Sungai Besi, Kuala Lumpur.

Mohd Radzi said his teachers had always wanted to do their best for their students.

"This is where my formal education begins, learning from teachers who are committed, dedicated and patient in shaping a knowledge base and personal character," he said.

-- BERNAMA