Deputy Minister Of Education Affirms Commitment To Teacher Welfare In 3T Regions

Deputy Minister of National Education (Wamendiknas) Fajar made a working visit in Sintang Regency, West Kalimantan. BETWEEN

PONTIANAK - Deputy Minister of National Education (Wamendiknas) Fajar emphasized the government's commitment to improve the welfare of teachers in the Disadvantaged, Frontier, and Outermost (3T) areas.

"The Ministry of Education ensures that the welfare of teachers is one of the main priorities of the government, as mandated by President Prabowo. The government's commitment is very clear, teacher allowances will be provided through a program that is gradual and sustainable to ensure their welfare, especially in the 3T region," said Fajar during a visit to Sintang, West Kalimantan, Saturday.

He acknowledged that the main challenge in the 3T area is the infrastructure gap and budget support from local governments. For this reason, he encourages a strong synergy between the central, provincial and district governments so that the management of the education budget runs optimally.

The presence of the Deputy Minister of Education and Culture in Sintang Regency is clear evidence of the government's alignment with the 3T area.

In the dialogue that was held with teachers and school principals, they conveyed various complaints, especially regarding employee income allowances that still depend on their respective regional financial capabilities.

Responding to this, the Deputy Minister of Education and National Affairs explained that the central government will continue to support the regions in resolving these obstacles through policies that are pro-guru and oriented towards the welfare of educators.

"The Ministry of Education only manages a small part of the total education budget in the APBN, while the rest is managed by the regions. Therefore, it is important for local governments to have a strong political will in supporting the welfare of teachers," he said.

In an effort to support the 3T area, the Deputy Minister of Education and National Affairs emphasized the importance of direct dialogue with education stakeholders to hear real needs in the field.

"We are not only talking about programs, but also feeling firsthand the challenges faced by teachers and school principals. This is the basis for more effective policy formulation," he said.

This government commitment is expected to have a positive impact on teachers in the 3T area, as well as strengthen efforts to equalize quality education throughout Indonesia.

In the same place, the Deputy Regent of Sintang, Melkianus, appreciated the attention of the central government. "The presence of the Deputy Minister of Education and Culture is proof that the government is serious in improving the quality of education in remote areas, including paying attention to the welfare of educators," said Melkianus.

Head of the West Kalimantan Provincial Education Office, Rita Hastarita, also said that attention to teachers in the 3T area is very important to overcome the gap in education that is still happening.