"Being a teacher is not an easy job," he stated at the commemoration of the 78th Anniversary of the Indonesian Teachers' Association (PGRI) and National Teachers' Day (HGN) 2023 in Jakarta on Saturday.
Jokowi said he was taken aback at the finding of international research institution RAND Corporation, which stated that the level of stress experienced by teachers was higher than those in other professions.
The president noted that the high level of stress was caused by three factors, namely student behavior, curriculum changes, and technological developments.
"However, the curriculum must continue to evolve because there is always a change. It cannot be separated from the rapid disruption of technology. It changes every day," he remarked.
Responding to these various challenges, the head of state called on all teachers to be able to adapt, especially to keep up with technological developments.
He also drew attention to the gap in infrastructure and educational facilities between urban areas and disadvantaged, frontier, and outermost (3T) areas.
"During my working visits, I stopped by at a vocational school. I then compared vocational schools in the city and in the district area. The infrastructure gap is quite big. The Education and Culture Ministry must handle this," he noted.
Due to myriad challenges and tasks faced by teachers, the president expressed his gratitude and appreciation to all those in the teaching profession in the country.
"On this occasion, on behalf of myself, the government, and the people, I would like to express my gratitude for the dedication and contribution of all teachers in Indonesia for educating our younger generation," he stated.
Education and Culture Minister Nadiem Makarim, Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture Muhadjir Effendy, Jakarta Acting Governor Heru Budi Hartono, National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo, and Indonesian Defense Forces (TNI) Commander General Agus Subiyanto were also present at the event.
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Translator: Yashinta Difa, Resinta Sulistiyandari
Editor: Azis Kurmala
Copyright © ANTARA 2023
