National Teacher's Day, Muhammadiyah Highlights Inequality In Educators' Welfare

General Chairperson of Muhammadiyah Central Executive Haedar Nashir (ANTARA)

YOGYAKARTA - In commemoration of National Teacher's Day, the General Chairperson of Muhammadiyah Central Executive Haedar Nashir highlighted the challenges of teacher welfare in Indonesia, especially in remote areas. According to him, many teachers still survive with minimal income and even work voluntarily.

"The business of educating the life of the nation actually does not know the country or the private sector. In many places, private institutions such as Muhammadiyah were present first, even with minimal capital. However, the policy of attracting public teachers from private schools shows discrimination in education politics," said Haedar, Monday, November 25.

Haedar appreciated the teacher certification program as the government's first step in paying attention to the welfare of educators. However, he emphasized that the impact was not evenly distributed, especially for teachers in private educational institutions.

With an education budget of 20% in accordance with the constitution, Haedar hopes that the welfare of teachers can continue to improve. However, he reminded that regional autonomy makes education funds spread to various agencies, not completely centralized at the Ministry of Education.

"The new minister brings new hope, although the challenge is not as easy as turning the palm of the hand," he said.

He also highlighted the role of teachers as the main pillar in advancing education. Haedar described the figure of a teacher as a fighter, as reflected in the heroic story of Laskar Pelangi.

"The increase in welfare must be accompanied by the development of teacher abilities and services. If not, the stagnation of the quality of education will exacerbate Indonesia's competitiveness, which is now lagging behind six neighboring countries in Southeast Asia," he said.

Haedar reminded that being a teacher is a call to educate the nation, not just a job. He also criticized the mentality of officials who prioritize personal welfare without devotion, which often leads to corruption.

"Certain teachers are those who inspire and build the nation. Like public officials, if they only pursue prosperity without service, the results will never be satisfactory," he said.

Ending his statement, Haedar paid tribute to the teachers, especially those who teach in remote areas. "Teachers are an example of the nation. Happy Teacher's Day! Greetings to true educators!" he concluded.