22/08/2026
Yesterday, we marked a special milestone: 30 years of the Caring Teacher Awards.
Over the past three decades, much has changed in education. Our classrooms have evolved, technology has transformed how we learn, and the world our young people are preparing for has become more complex.
As AI becomes increasingly capable of providing answers, explaining concepts and personalising learning, we must ask ourselves: What do our young people need most from their teachers?
I believe the answer lies in what is deeply human.
Our young people need teachers who sees them, believes in them, and cares about them. They need teachers who help them develop the confidence to face uncertainty, the judgement to make good choices, the resilience to recover from setbacks, and the values to know what they stand for.
Technology can support learning, but it cannot replace the relationship between a teacher and a student. Nor can it replicate the professional judgement, empathy and care that sit at the heart of good teaching.
This is what being “More Than a Teacher” means to me.
My heartiest congratulations to our 10 Caring Teacher Awards 2026 recipients and all our nominees. Your stories remind us of the many quiet acts of care taking place in our schools every day, often without recognition, but with an impact that can last a lifetime.
I am deeply appreciative of Exxonmobil Singapore for journeying with us over the past 30 years, our external panel of judges for their time and commitment, and Raffles Girls' Secondary School for hosting this year’s celebration.
As Teachers’ Day approaches, I thank all educators across Singapore including parents being our children’s first teacher. You may not always get to see where your influence leads but never doubt that what you do matters.
Happy Teachers’ Day.
