Mangaluru: Mere literacy is not enough and value-based education is the need of the hour, health minister UT Khader said Saturday.Speaking after inaugurating the Teachers’ Day celebrations organised by Dakshina Kannada district administration, ZP and various departments at Kudmul Ranga Rao Town Hall, Khader said teachers carry the responsibility of shaping future generations.“Only teachers possess the unique ability to transform students into formidable forces through education. If teachers dedicate their intellect and talents to their pupils, it can generate tremendous wealth of character for the nation. Today, we increasingly see educated individuals engaging in unlawful activities. Therefore, mere literacy is not enough; value-based education is the need of the hour,” Khader said.He said continuous learning has become imperative for educators amid rapid technological advancements. Teachers must keep themselves updated with technological developments for the sake of their students, he said, adding that failure to adapt could make the teachers academic journey difficult.Khader said actively embracing tools like artificial intelligence would help educators stay connected with students and prevent them from falling out of step with society.During the event, 21 primary, higher primary and high school teachers from Dakshina Kannada district were felicitated with the Best Teacher Award. Retired teaching and non-teaching staff of the Mangaluru North Block were also honoured.MLC Ivan D’Souza, Muda chairman Santosh Kumar Shetty, Cashew Development Corporation chairperson Mamatha Gatti, Karnataka Eco-Tourism Development Board chairperson Shallet Pinto, deputy commissioner Darshan HV, ZP CEO Narwade Vinayak Karbhari, Mangaluru City Corporation commissioner Rahul Ratnam Pandey and others were present.