SOLOMON Island National Teachers Association (SINTA) has awarded medals and certificates to seven long serving teachers during events marking World Teachers day last Wednesday at Tatamba, Isabel Province.

The medal and certificates are part of SINTA’s initiative to recognize teachers for their contribution towards the country in national building.

The seven awardees consisted of five male and two females—all were retired teachers with exceptional service ranging from 33 – 45 years.

The day was described as a historic and extraordinary event for the nation to witness and recognize passionate teachers who are presented medals and certificates by SINTA president Mr Philip Ika and General Secretary Mr Robert Lafisi.

The retirees’ award recipients are;

Mrs Dorothy Bana from Isabel province, she served the country for 36 years as a primary teacher

Mr Godfrey Mola from Isabel province, worked as a teacher for 33 years, and former chairman of Isabel SINTA branch.

Mr Matthias Kokili from Isabel, he is the long serving teacher in Isabel province for 41 years

Mr Charles Mariu Niamae, has been serving the country in teaching for 43 years, and is also from Isabel.

Mr George Gilafi, was awarded with a medal and certificate for 36 years of teaching.

Mrs Edith Kopala from Isabel has been working in Isabel as a teacher for 35 years

Mr Samuel Legufaka from Guadalcanal province who worked in Isabel and Guadalcanal for 37 years.

Late Hedley Vix from Isabel, served Solomon Islands as a teacher for 45 years, despite his passing away SINTA has recognized his duty and his son received the Medal on his behalf.

Speaking on behalf of male teachers, Mr Godfrey Mola acknowledged SINTA for recognizing services and how it means to them.

“It has been a long time and the government had forsaken us, there was no special recognition of us from the government,” Mr Mola said.

He suggests that the government recognise teachers to motivate and encourage more teachers in the industry.

Mr Mola commends SINTA for their initiative in continuing to put teachers on the spotlight.

Mrs Dorothy Bana, acknowledged SINTA for recognizing women and giving them the opportunity.

She also acknowledged teachers of this nation, saying that without them they will never be highlighted.

 

SINTA General Secretary, Robert Lafisi said he was impressed by the teachers’ long service to the country.

Mr Lafisi said it is challenging, but SINTA is there to support them.

He encourages teachers to continue serve the government, and the association—and they will always take care of their welfare.