Teachers from throughout Tongatapu marked World Teachers' Day on Friday, October 6 with a theme, "Teaching in freedom, empowering teachers".

Hundreds joined a colourful parade in the Central Business District and a program held, at the Queen Salote College Hall, attended by teachers from all school systems.

HE Cardinal Mafi, the guest of honour, said this was a day to be thankful, acknowledging the importance of this noble and difficult profession.

He said in Tonga we value education, and are thankful that we have the freedom to teach.

"This annual day for teachers around the world is an opportunity to go beyond our nation’s context and remember and pray for those countries, perhaps that do not have this freedom to exercise freely this noble task.”

The parade was led by colourful secondary school brass bands from various schools.