“We want the Polish school to be modern, which means that classes will be conducted in an interesting way, engaging students and fostering the discovery of their talents and the development of their interests”, wrote Minister of Education and Science Przemysław Czarnek in a letter addressed to teachers and education staff on the occasion of National Education Day.

On the eve of the holiday, Wednesday 13 October, Minister Czarnek presented teachers with state distinctions, medals of the Commission for Scientific Education, awards and titles of Professor of Education.

During the ceremony, the Minister of Education and Science thanked teachers for their efforts in supporting students after a long period of distance learning. He also spoke about investments made in Polish schools. In the past few months alone, local authorities have obtained as much as PLN 5.2 billion for the expansion of educational infrastructure, and the educational subsidy has increased by PLN 11 billion. There has never been such investment in Polish education before”, stressed the Minister.

In his letter to teachers, Przemysław Czarnek referred to the laws of 1773, which emphasised the importance and authority of educators. At the same time, they drew attention to the versatility of educators and indicated the values and character traits of an excellent teacher.

“Even then, the most important attributes of the profession included sensitivity, decisiveness, responsibility, fairness, as well as concern for the welfare of pupils. These ideals, which still characterise teachers today, are a reason for us to appreciate particularly your commitment. I sincerely thank you for your exemplary teaching, educational and caring mission”, stressed the head of the Ministry of Education and Science.

National Education Day has its origins in the National Education Commission, Europe’s first ministry of education, established by the Sejm in 1773 on the initiative of King Stanisław August Poniatowski.

Adrian Andrzejewski