Latvian President Edgars Rinkēvičs is calling on parents, teachers and everyone working in the education system to remember that schools and all discussions surrounding them exist for the sake of children.
As the Chancery of the President told the LETA news agency, the president urged everyone to remember that these discussions are taking place so that children can move through life with greater confidence and go further. “Listen to one another, talk and look for solutions. Because if everyone’s goal is a bright future for children, it will be possible to find the right path,” Rinkēvičs said.
The president congratulated students, teachers and parents on Knowledge Day. He noted that his greetings are intended both for those who had been eagerly awaiting this day and for those for whom it is filled with uncertainty and anxiety, as well as those who would rather have extended their summer holidays.
Rinkēvičs noted that although he is visiting various schools today simply as a curious guest, 1 September is nevertheless a special day for him as well.
In his message to students, the president said he understands that many of them may find congratulations somewhat out of place because “from now on, the alarm clock will wake you every day, and every time it will seem to ring a little too early.”
“But you will learn a great deal. Not only what is written in the curriculum. You will also learn how to make friends. You will learn how to disagree thoughtfully and understand other people’s views. You will learn how to cope even with those lessons that do not interest you at all,” the president said.
In his message, Rinkēvičs noted that the new school year will bring plenty of satisfaction and joy, but there will also be moments that may seem hopeless, when nothing appears to work out.
“Ask for help! School is a place for learning — for students, teachers and parents alike. And learning how to seek and find help is very important for everyone,” the president said.
The president extended special greetings to first-graders. He noted that today they are almost like explorers of the universe — a universe of knowledge, as Rinkēvičs described it — adding that they are dressed in clothes that may not be the most comfortable, but are certainly special.
“You have entered a new world — a planet of knowledge and discovery. Little by little, and cautiously, you will explore what happens there. Other astronauts will be beside you, taking their first uncertain steps in this new place. They say that time passes differently both in space and at school. May your first-grade mission be filled with fascinating discoveries!” Rinkēvičs said.