The Education Bureau held the Excellence in Teaching Awards ceremony today at the Central Government Offices, presided over by Chief Executive John Lee and Secretary for Education Sophia Cai, among other officials, to recognize 17 teachers for their outstanding teaching performance. In his speech, John Lee noted that the awardees embody a passion for education characterized by a drive for progress and a courage to innovate. Citing the ancient proverb 'those who seek the growth of a tree must first strengthen its roots,' he emphasized that the nation is the foundation for social development and a prosperous life, and that the quality of education will directly determine Hong Kong's future competitiveness. He expressed his hope that teachers would shoulder three major responsibilities: seizing the opportunities of the artificial intelligence era, enhancing professional competence, and deeply cultivating a sense of national identity.