BEIJING -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday, the eve of Teachers' Day, urged party organs and governments to make teaching the most respected job in China.

Xi was speaking at Beijing Normal University, where he visited labs, and teaching sessions, talking with faculty members and students.

The improvement of education and the prosperity of the nation needs teachers with high ethics, teaching skills and energy levels, said Xi.

He called on teachers to set the bar high and dedicate themselves to the modernization cause. He urged governments at all levels to put education at their top of their agenda and continue education reform.

Before the tour, Xi met award winning teachers and congratulated them.