Leading the National Teachers’ Day 2025 ceremony on Tuesday, he said a nation’s advancement is closely linked to the strength of its education system, a responsibility carried largely by teachers.
He highlighted teachers’ strategic role in advancing education and shaping national character. According to the minister, teachers remain irreplaceable because education involves not only transferring knowledge but also nurturing character, ethics, and moral values.
The minister also noted progress in the implementation of the Teacher Professional Education (PPG) program under the ministry.
He said the number of PPG participants has risen significantly, indicating broader opportunities for teachers within the Ministry of Religious Affairs to enhance their competence and obtain professional recognition.
He added that hundreds of thousands of teachers have received professional allowances, while tens of thousands of honorarium-based teachers have been appointed as Government Employees with Work Agreements (PPPK) over the past three years.
Umar stressed that strengthening professional competence must be accompanied by reinforcing moral and spiritual integrity. He urged teachers to educate children with compassion so they grow into a generation that loves the nation and humanity.
He also encouraged revising Law No. 14 of 2005 on Teachers and Lecturers to ensure fairness and equality for all educators, including those in religious education.
“There must be no distinction between lecturers at general universities and those at religious universities, and no difference between madrasa teachers and elementary school teachers. All are children of the nation, and there must be no discrimination,” he said.
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Translator: Asep, Kenzu
Editor: Primayanti
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