Secretary for Education Choi Yuk-lin today paid tribute to more than 1,500 teachers for their selfless dedication in nurturing talent as she officiated at a ceremony marking Teachers' Day.

Addressing attendees, Ms Choi said that in a fast-changing technological era in which Artificial Intelligence (AI) is developing at a rapid pace, the role of teachers is more important than ever.

She stressed that while technology can no doubt reform teaching methods, it will never replace teachers' noble mission of nurturing students. Only teachers, she said, can discern the unique potential of each student. Their wisdom, she added, can enlighten minds and respond to learners' diverse needs; moreover, teachers offer guidance when students feel confused, encouragement when they face setbacks, and affirmation on their personal growth.

Ms Choi highlighted the Government's Blueprint for Digital Education Development in Primary & Secondary Schools, which emphasises the pivotal role of teachers in driving digital education, and equips them to use AI tools.

The education chief expressed her hope that teachers will always bear in mind the core mission of “cultivating values and nurturing people” when fostering students' capabilities in innovation, collaboration, problem-solving, and critical thinking, such that students can put “technology for good” into practice through reasonable and responsible use of AI.

Today’s ceremony was organised by the "Committee on Respect Our Teachers Campaign".