Lukashenko wants improvements in teachers' performance assessment

MINSK, 4 October (BelTA) – Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko deems it necessary to streamline teacher performance assessment. The Belarusian President made this statement as he met with the finalists of the national Teacher of the Year contest on 4 October, BelTA has learnt.

“Progressive teachers should have an opportunity to get a higher category in advance for their real achievements, not just because they have many years of service,” the head of state said. He also urged to come up with incentives to encourage young talented teachers to work at school.

Alexander Lukashenko believes that pedagogical universities and advanced training courses should invite more teachers-practitioners. “We should allow them to use their own programs and original methods. And include them into the list of authors of textbooks,” the President said.

The head of state pointed to a large number of teachers from provincial and rural schools among the finalists of the competition. The President believes that this is a testimony to successful efforts to offer equal educational opportunities in the capital and in the regions.

Addressing the finalists of the national competition, Alexander Lukashenko emphasized, “You are important social pillars. We appreciate your experience, professionalism and dedication. I would like you to preserve civil and patriotic traditions of Belarusian educators and set an example for young teachers”.

In his words, over its 20-year history, the competition has turned into a real academy of teaching prowess. “This demonstrates the high social status of teachers and great respect for their work. The successful future of the state in many ways depends on the education system that embraces both traditions and modernity. Education is a foundation to build on intellectual potential and strengthen the spirits of our nation. This is why we do our best to give our students world-class education,” the head of state said.

Alexander Lukashenko presented the major prize Chrystal Crane and cars keys to the winner of the contest, English language teacher from Dyatlovo Gymnasium No. 1 Inessa Zubrilina.