TODAY is Teachers' Day. When I recall my school days in the 1960s, I have fond memories of several wonderful teachers.

There was the caring and generous Mr Heng. He gave me a dictionary and taught me how to structure proper English sentences after school hours.

He taught me important life skills which I could put to good use, especially at work.

There was the vice-principal, Miss Boswell, who taught me how to lead and always cared for the students' welfare.

There was also a Malay-language teacher, Encik Johari, who took us to movies and paid for us when we did well in tests.

Even though I have forgotten most of the lessons, I still remember their acts of kindness, care and love. I would like to say a big thank you to them all.

Our newspapers could highlight the occasion by encouraging readers to send in written tributes to their teachers.

This could reaffirm for teachers and the public that teaching is still a noble profession; debunk the idea that teaching is a thankless job; and draw more young people to the vocation.

W. A. Ward once said: "The mediocre teacher tells. The good teacher explains. The superior teacher demonstrates. The great teacher inspires."

Mr Heng, Miss Boswell and Encik Johari were undoubtedly great teachers.

Mr Nelson Quah

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