State-Level Teachers’ Day Celebration Honours Excellence and Commitment in Education
Gangtok, September 5 (IPR) : Chief Minister, Mr Prem Singh Tamang, graced the State-level Teachers’ Day celebration organised by the Education Department as the Chief Guest, at Manan Kendra, Gangtok. The day is marked to commemorate the birth anniversary of Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, the first Vice President of India and a distinguished educationist.
In his address, the Chief Minister, Mr Prem Singh Tamang, highlighted the vital role of teachers in shaping generations and building the future of the State. He congratulated the National and State Teachers’ Award recipients and emphasised that recognition marks the beginning of greater responsibility and commitment.
Drawing from his own experience as a former teacher, the Chief Minister acknowledged the challenges faced by teachers, particularly those serving in remote areas. He urged probationary and ad hoc teachers to remain committed to their postings, stressing that schools in remote areas continue to face shortages while urban schools have surplus teachers. He also called for greater consideration of qualified local candidates to address teacher shortages in underserved areas.
He stressed that experienced teachers should have greater opportunities to contribute to education administration and policymaking, rather than spending their entire careers at the grassroots level. He urged officials to view policies from the perspective of teachers and students, particularly those serving in difficult and remote areas.
He further highlighted the Government’s focus on strengthening education through initiatives such as boarding schools, stating that the confidence and communication skills demonstrated by students reflect the opportunities being created within the State’s education system.
In his address, Minister, Education, Sports and Youth Affairs, Law, and Parliamentary Affairs Department, Mr Raju Basnet, reiterated the State Government’s vision for education. He emphasised that meaningful and lasting transformation in the education system can be achieved only by empowering teachers. In this regard, he stated that the state Government has accorded special priority to the professional development, capacity building, training, welfare and recognition of teachers.
Elaborating on the evolving role of teachers in the contemporary education system, the Minister emphasised the importance of teachers becoming “lifelong learner”. With this objective, he stated that various training and capacity-building programmes are being conducted through educational institutions across the State.
Underscoring the Government’s commitment to education, Mr Basnet stated that the sector remains one of its highest priorities. He described the declaration of Sikkim as a fully literate State by the President of India as a historic achievement and a moment of immense pride for the people of Sikkim. He attributed this accomplishment to the collective efforts of teachers, students, parents and society at large.
He further noted the significant improvement in the pass percentages of Class X and XII students in government schools, describing it as an encouraging indication of the progress being made in the State’s education sector. At the same time, he emphasised that education must not be viewed solely through the lens of examinations and marks.
In this context, the Minister stressed the need to build an education system that equips students not only with knowledge but also with character, confidence, discipline, compassion and a strong sense of responsibility.
Mr Basnet, highlighted the Government’s focus on a wide range of educational areas, including foundational and refresher programmes, university education, vocational education, career counselling, sports, yoga, mindfulness, digital learning and education rooted in practical, everyday life experiences.
Further, the Minister extended his heartfelt congratulations to all the awardees. He stated that the awards were not merely a recognition of individual achievement but also a matter of pride for the entire teaching community, acknowledging the dedication, commitment and invaluable contribution of teachers towards shaping the future of the State.
Earlier, in his welcome address, Principal Secretary, Sandeep Tambe, commended the award-winning teachers for their contribution to the field of education. He said that the occasion was an opportunity to recognise and commemorate the often silent yet significant efforts of teachers in shaping the lives of children. He emphasised the pivotal role teachers play not only in nurturing the potential of every child but also in shaping a responsible and progressive society.
He stated that a teacher’s responsibility extends beyond imparting academic knowledge, as they play a crucial role in preparing children for the challenges and opportunities of life. He expressed his gratitude to the Chief Minister, Mr Prem Singh Tamang for his presence and his support towards the education sector. He also conveyed his appreciation to the teaching fraternity for nurturing the aspirations, dreams and potential of every child.
In his address, President, Sikkim Teachers Association (STA), Mr Kunzang Sherpa, expressed his gratitude to the attendees on the occasion of National Teachers’ Day. He emphasised that teachers play a vital role in the holistic development of children, nurturing not only their academic abilities but also their character, confidence and overall growth.
He highlighted the continued efforts of the Sikkim Teachers Association towards safeguarding the interests and welfare of the teaching fraternity and reiterated STA’s commitment to working towards the professional development and well-being of teachers. He also congratulated all the awardees and acknowledged their dedication and contribution to the field of education.
Mr Sherpa highlighted various initiatives and activities undertaken by the STA for the benefit of teachers and students. He further expressed gratitude to the Chief Minister for his continued support and encouragement to the teaching fraternity. He also spoke about the CM Mentorship Programme, highlighting its positive impact on students and the benefits it has brought to their academic and personal development.
He also placed before the Chief Minister various concerns and grievances of the teaching fraternity, seeking his continued support and intervention.
The programme commenced with lamp chanting of Vedic Mantras by Students of Pacheykhani Sanskrit Pathshala, marking the beginning of the State-level Teachers’ Day celebration.
The programme also featured a special presentation of ‘Vande Mataram’ in Indian Sign Language (ISL) by students, showcasing their abilities and reflecting the spirit of inclusive education, diversity and equal opportunity.
Further, a song presentation by the students of DIET College added to the celebration, showcasing their talent and enthusiasm.
A video presentation on ‘Mero School, Mero Abhiyan’ was also showcased, a flagship initiative launched on January 26, 2026, under the vision of the Chief Minister Mr Prem Singh Tamang, highlighting the initiative’s focus on recognising and empowering teacher-led innovations at the school level. The presentation emphasised locally developed solutions to challenges such as learning gaps, declining enrolment and student engagement, while promoting inclusive, joyful and innovative learning environments across schools in Sikkim.
The programme further featured a song presentation by the students of TNSS, Gangtok, who captivated the audience with their melodious performance. The presentation added a vibrant and engaging element to the celebration, showcasing the students’ musical talent and enthusiasm.
The programme also witnessed the launch of ‘Mero School, Mero Bhagidari,’ Adopt-a-School) by the Chief Minister of Sikkim, Mr Prem Singh Tamang. The initiative seeks to encourage greater participation and partnership in the development of schools by bringing together various stakeholders to support the educational and overall development of students. It aims to foster a sense of shared responsibility and community ownership towards improving the learning environment in schools across the State.
A video presentation on ‘Kuzu Phonics,’ a pilot project for Grade 1 teachers of Sikkim, was showcased, highlighting the importance of phonics in strengthening early language and literacy skills among children. Kuzu Phonics, is a four-month, play-based pilot initiative jointly launched by DIETs Gangtok, Namchi and Gyalshing, aimed at making early literacy learning more joyful and engaging for children in government schools through phonics-based activities.
A video presentation on the Statewide Technical Education Programme (STEP) was also made, highlighting the initiative’s efforts to bring Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning into classrooms across Sikkim. Implemented by Inquisitive Mindspace, a homegrown EdTech startup, STEP is currently being undertaken in 44 PM SHRI schools, benefiting over 8,000 students from Classes VI to IX and providing upskilling opportunities to more than 300 teachers. The programme aims to equip students with essential technology skills and prepare them to confidently navigate and shape their future in an increasingly digital world. A video showcasing the initiative was subsequently presented.
Subsequently, the Chief Minister launched the ‘Sikkim School Quality Monitoring and Mentoring Framework.’
The National Teachers' Award 2025 was presented to Mr Karma Tempo Ethenpa, Principal, PM SHRI Government Senior Secondary School, Mangan.
The State Awards 2026 were conferred upon 12 teachers in recognition of their exemplary service and contribution to the field of education,
* Mrs Marmit Lepcha, Headmistress,Govt Primary School,Lower Suldung, Soreng District
* Mr Jai Narayan Chettri, GT Mathematics, PM SHRI Govt Secondary School, Tikpur, Soreng District
* Mr Krishna Bahadur Rai, Headmaster, Govt Primary School, Lethang, Gyalshing District
* Mr Ram Kumar Sharma, Headmaster, Govt Jr High School, Bermiok Dara Gaon, Gyalshing District
* Mr Dorjee Namgyal Lepcha, Headmaster, Govt Primary School, Ruchung, Namchi District
* Mr Nim Tshering Bhutia, Headmaster, Govt Jr High School, Sripatam, Namchi District
* Mrs Nima Norkit Lepcha, Headmistress, Govt Primary School, Lingkoo, Mangan District
* Mrs Dikki Ongmu Lachungpa, GT Arts, Govt Jr High School, Lingthem, Mangan District
* Mrs Kanta Lama, Headmistress, Govt Primary School, Titribotey, Pakyong District
* Mrs Bina Tamang, GT Arts, Govt Secondary School, Ahopul Kishan, Pakyong District
* Mrs Lohita Sharma, Primary Teacher, PM Shri Govt Secondary School, Ralap, Gangtok District
* Ms Priscilla Rai, GT Science, Govt Sr Secondary School, Rumtek, Gangtok District
Commendation Certificates 2026 with 24 awardees,
* Ms Kamala Rai, Primary Teacher, Govt Primary School, Lower Timburbong, Soreng District
* Ms Khina Maya Chettri, Primary Teacher, Govt Jr. High School, Bajek, Soreng District
* Mr Pramod Rai, Headmaster , PM SHRI Govt Jr. High School, Naya Bazar, Soreng District
* Mr Pem Dorjee Bhutia, Headmaster, Govt. Jr. High School, Zeel, Soreng District
* Ms Phurba Khandu Gurung, Primary Teacher, Govt. Primary School, Khorong, Gyalshing District
* Ms Kumari Sharma,Headmistress, Govt. Primary School, Labing, Gyalshing District
* Mr Purna Kumar Sharma, Graduate Teacher,Science, Mahatma Srijunga Govt. Sr. Secondary School, Bermiok, Gyalshing District
* Mr Surendra Limbo, Headmaster, Govt. Jr. High School, Radhu, Gyalshing District
* Ms Yamuna Poudyal, Primary Teacher, Govt. Primary School, Upper Tanak, Namchi District
* Mr Kharga Bdr Manger, Primary Teacher, Govt. Jr. High School, Chumlok, Namchi District
* Mr Gay Tshering Bhutia, GT Arts, Govt. New Secondary School, Namchi, Namchi District
* Mr Ghana Shyam Pradhan, Headmaster, Govt. Jr. High School, Mamley,Namchi District
* Mr Subash Chandra Rai, Primary Teacher, PM SHRI Govt. Primary School,Tingda, Mangan District
* Mr Prakash Lepcha, Primary Teacher, Govt. Primary School, Malling, Mangan District
* Mr Thupden Wangchuk Lachungpa, Headmaster, Govt. Jr. High School, Swayem, Mangan District
* Ms Tashi Tshomu Bhutia, GT Science, Govt. Jr. High School, Phamtam, Mangan District
* Ms Gopi Pradhan, Primary Teacher, Govt. Primary School, Middle Aritar, Pakyong District
* Ms Mamta Chettri, Primary Teacher, Govt. Secondary School, Mulukey, Pakyong District
* Mr Dilip Kumar Rai, Headmaster, Govt. Jr. High School, Pakyong
* Mr Ravi Pradhan, GT Mathematics, Govt. Secondary School,Syaplay Sardaray, Pakyong District
* Ms Sonam Dolkhar Lachungpa, Primary Teacher, Govt. Jr. High School, Samlick Marchak, Gangtok District
* Ms Anjana Tamang, Primary Teacher, Govt. Primary School, Phenzong, Gangtok District
* Ms Yangchen Donkar Phalangtharpa, GT Science, Govt. Secondary School, Upper Burtuk, Gangtok District
* Ms Sulekha Rai, Graduate Teacher Arts ,Govt. Jr. High School, Tumlabong, Gangtok District
Certificates were presented to the teachers representing Sikkim at the National Teacher Awards 2026, namely Mr Dhan Kumar Gurung, Headmaster, Govt PS Ramidham, Soreng District, and Mr Sudeep Subba, Headmaster - Pewthang PS, Gyalshing District.
Ms Sushma Tamang, PG, PM SHRI Government Senior Secondary School, Dikling, Pakyong District was conferred the National Award for Teachers 2026.
The MSMA Hall of Fame of Innovative Teachers was also released by the Chief Minister, followed by the presentation of the State Award for Innovation 2026 under the MSMA initiative to nine awardees, along with certificates and cash awards.
Trophies were presented to the top-performing schools in the CBSE Class X and XII Examinations 2026. The schools recognised were,
* Government Secondary School, Raley, Gangtok District
* PM SHRI Government Senior Secondary School, Samdong, Gangtok District
* SS Government Senior Secondary School, Mangalbaria, Soreng District
* PM SHRI VC Ganju Lama Government Senior Secondary School, Ravangla, Namchi District
* Government Senior Secondary School, Namchebong, Pakyong District
Certificates of appreciation were also presented to the 46 schools that secured 100 per cent results in the Class X CBSE Board Examinations 2026, with the respective School Heads receiving the certificates.
The State Academic Achievement Survey (SAAS) 2026 Report was officially released by the State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT), Sikkim.
Similarly, the ULLAS initiative was also formally released on the occasion.
The Kuzu phonics logo, banners and placards were released by the Principals of the DIETs of Gangtok, Namchi and Gyalshing.
A token of love was presented to the Chief Minister by the State and Commendation Awardee Teachers of 2025.
Subsequently, the State Awardee Teachers 2026, Ms Kanta Lama and Ms Priscilla Rai, shared their experiences and journeys as educators, highlighting their learnings, challenges and achievements in the field of education. They also spoke about their commitment and dedication towards teaching, inspiring fellow educators to continue working with sincerity and passion.
The programme was attended by, Speaker, Mr MN Sherpa, Deputy Speaker, Ms Raj Kumari Thapa, Cabinet Ministers, MLA-cum-Advisors, Member of the Parliament, Mr Indra Hang Subba, Chairperson of the Sikkim State Teachers' Recruitment Board (SSTRB), Ms Vidya Subba, Chairman of the Students' Welfare Board, Education Department, Mr Sonam Chopel Sherpa, Adakshaya, Up-Adakshaya, Zilla Panchayats, Mayor, Ms Tshering Palden Bhutia, Deputy Mayor, Ms Sara Lama, DGP, Mr Akshay Sachdeva, HODs and senior officials from various departments and teachers and students from different schools and colleges.
The vote of thanks was proposed by, Secretary, School Education, Mr Tashi Chopel Lepcha.
Report from DIO-GANGTOK