MOSCOW, October 5 (RIA Novosti) – October 5, 2014 marks the 20th anniversary of the World Teachers" Day, commemorating the adoption of The International Labor Organization and The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ILO/UNESCO) 1966 recommendations regarding the status of teachers.
"Innovative, inclusive and results-focused teaching is crucial for 2015 and beyond if we are to provide the best possible opportunities for millions of children, youth and adults worldwide," read ILO's official statement commemorating the event.
According to UNESCO's current data, an extra 1.4 million teachers are needed in classrooms across the world to achieve universal primary education by 2015, and 3.4 million additional teachers will be needed by 2030.
The ILO/UNESCO 1966 recommendations recognized education as a fundamental human right, emphasizing the importance of well trained teachers. The recommendations also outlined what the training of a well-prepared teacher should include, from general studies to the study of main elements.
"All teachers should be prepared in general, special and pedagogical subjects in universities, or in institutions on a level comparable to universities, or else in special institutions for the preparation of teachers," stated article 21(1) of the 1966 recommendations.
The ILO raises the need for better employment conditions for teachers, especially young people and women from under-represented communities mentioned in the Post-2015 Development Agenda, which is part of the United Nation's Millennium Development Goals.
"The international community and governments must stand united to support teachers and quality education worldwide, and especially in those countries where the highest number of out-of-school children exists," read ILO's statement. "Investing in teachers" means investing in the future."
