Jakarta (ANTARA News) - President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) has stated that teachers` quality must be offset with their welfare.

"Of course, their welfare must be adjusted with the ability of the state; therefore, I request the (teachers`) certification issues to be implemented properly. I also call for the professional allowances for teachers who have been certified to be paid on time and in the right amount," Jokowi stated, in his speech during the celebration of the National Teachers Day and the 72nd anniversary of the Indonesian Teachers Association (PGRI) in Bekasi, West Java Province, on Saturday.

The president further noted that he would examine the entire process of disbursement of allowances for teachers who have been allocated by the government.

The second point included in the president`s directive is the simplification of administrative affairs, which become a barrier to teachers.

"I entrust the Minister of Education and Cultures, Minister of State Apparatuses and Administration Reform (RB), governors, district heads, and mayors to deal with the issue. If the public service is better, open, and transparent, then the service system of governance at the central and local teachers can also be faster, more effective, and more efficient," the president remarked.

The head of state then pointed out that the government will overcome the shortage of teachers in stages according to the government`s ability.

The president also remarked that while appointing teachers, the government will prioritize meritocracy and teachers with a long period of devotion and teaching career.

"Do not lock up their chances. Teachers with 3Ts, including teachers who are in the leading position, in outer islands, and in underdeveloped regions, who have served decades and have the competence and qualifications, should be given priority. The government will not overlook the teachers who have served persistently," he revealed.

The president urged the Ministry of Education and Culture, Ministry of State Apparatuses and Administration Reform (RB), as well as local governments to coordinate and ensure that the filling of the shortage of teachers is done well.



Reported by Bayu Prasetyo
(B003/INE/B003)

Reporter: antara
Editor: Heru Purwanto
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