‘MORE THAN A TEACHER. MORE THAN A STORY’: NIE AND EXXONMOBIL HONOUR INSPIRING EDUCATORS AT CTA 2026
A teacher who once struggled through school and family hardship now sits beside students during their toughest moments, reminding them they are not alone. Inspired by the teacher who never gave up on him, he believes that sometimes, the most powerful thing a teacher can do is simply to be present.
Another learnt sign language to better connect with students who communicate differently. Shaped by the sacrifices her parents made to help her succeed in school, she transformed cooking sessions into a safe space where students feel seen, valued and supported. These are just two of the stories behind this year's Caring Teacher Awards recipients, whose quiet acts of care continue to shape lives beyond the classroom.
Organised by the National Institute of Education (NIE), Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, with the support of the Ministry of Education and ExxonMobil Asia Pacific Pte Ltd, the 16th Caring Teacher Awards (CTA) 2026 Presentation Ceremony was held at the Raffles Girls’ School on Friday, 21 August 2026.
This year, the Caring Teacher Awards saw a 39% increase in nominations and a 16% increase in participation from schools, bringing the total to 18,122 nominations from 301 schools. The overwhelming response reflects the deep appreciation that students, parents and school communities have for teachers who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to the holistic development of their students. After rigorous evaluation, an external panel of judges selected four National Level Award winners and six National Commendation Award winners.
"Teachers are often more than just educators, they are mentors, role models and trusted figures who guide students through both academic and personal growth. The theme ‘More Than A Teacher’ recognises the many ways educators make a meaningful difference in the lives of young people. We are heartened by the strong increase in nominations this year, which reflects the deep appreciation that students, parents and communities have for caring teachers across Singapore." said Professor Liu Woon Chia, NIE Director.
Guest-of-Honour Dr Syed Harun Alhabsyi, Senior Parliamentary Secretary for Education, will present the awards to 10 teachers comprising four Primary, four Secondary and two Junior College/Centralised Institute educators at the Raffles Girls’ School.
Speaking on ExxonMobil’s continued support for the Caring Teacher Awards, Mr. Jean-Marc Taton, Chairman and Managing Director of ExxonMobil Asia Pacific Pte Ltd said: “ExxonMobil is proud of our longstanding partnership with the National Institute of Education in supporting the Caring Teacher Awards since 1996. We believe that supporting education and teachers who lead with care is investing in the longer-term wellbeing of the communities where we operate.”
Presenting the Caring Teacher Awards winners:
The event has been featured on Berita Mediacorp and Lianhe Zaobao.
