President marks Knowledge Day with message to students, teachers and parents
Latvia's President Edgars Rinkēvičs addressed students, teachers and parents on Knowledge Day, with special words for first-graders. He urged everyone to learn to seek help and stressed that education must always serve children's future.
On September 1, Latvia's President Edgars Rinkēvičs issued a greeting to everyone involved in the start of the new school year — students, teachers and parents alike. He noted that the day holds special meaning for him too, even though he now visits schools only as a guest.
Addressing students directly, the president acknowledged that for many, early mornings and the return to lessons are not exactly welcome. Still, he stressed that the school year will bring far more than curriculum knowledge — pupils will also learn friendship, how to argue constructively and understand differing views, and how to cope with difficult moments. Rinkēvičs reminded everyone — students, teachers and parents alike — that learning to ask for and accept help is an essential skill.
A call to parents and educators
Turning to parents, teachers and others working in education, the president said all discussions about schools must ultimately serve children, helping them move through life with confidence and reach further. He called for listening, dialogue and joint problem-solving, adding that when the shared goal is a bright future for children, the right path can always be found.
Special words for first-graders
Rinkēvičs had a special message for first-graders, comparing their first school day to conquering a universe of knowledge and discovery. He wished these young "astronauts" an interesting mission ahead, and extended wishes of success to everyone for the new school year.
