Ensuring Safe School Environment is Crucial, President Jokowi Says
President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo opens the 23rd Congress of Indonesian Teachers Association (PGRI), at the Grand Sahid Jaya Hotel, Jakarta, Saturday (03/02). (Photo by: BPMI of Presidential Secretariat)
President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo Saturday (03/02) officially opened the 23rd Congress of Indonesian Teachers Association (PGRI), at the Grand Sahid Jaya Hotel, Jakarta province.
According to the President, ensuring a safe and comfortable school environment is crucial for achieving academic success and fostering student excellence.
“I would like to appreciate the teachers for their dedication to providing students with knowledge and character development. A safe and comfortable school environment is crucial for nurturing outstanding students,” the President said.
Regarding recent cases of bullying in schools, the Head of State underlined the importance of schools being a safe house where students can learn and grow without fear or pressure.
“Schools need to be a safe house, a secure place where students can learn, explore, get along, and express themselves freely. No students should feel afraid or stressed at school. Every student should feel welcomed and at ease in their learning environment,” he stressed.
On that occasion, the President called on teachers and educational personnel to prioritize prevention and safeguard students’ rights, urging them not to cover up problems but to actively seek solutions and make improvements.
“Prioritize prevention and the rights of our children, especially those who fall victims. Let’s not cover up cases of bullying; instead, let’s resolve them. Often, bullying incidents are concealed to protect the school’s reputation. I believe it’s better to address and enhance the situation,” he said.
In addition, President Jokowi also highlighted that Indonesia is at a crucial stage to leverage its demographic advantage for development. However, success greatly depends on the quality of education and learning environments that are conducive for the younger generation.
“Hence, education and development of human resources are vital, encompassing physical, knowledge, and character aspects,” he added.
President Jokowi also expressed gratitude to PGRI for its active role in enhancing teacher professionalism, which will directly contribute to human resources development in the country.
“With the collaboration of the Government and PGRI, I am sure that the quality and professionalism of teachers will continue to increase so that producing a superior young generation with strong national character will be achieved,” he said.
“With the Government and PGRI collaborating, I’m confident that the quality and professionalism of teachers will keep improving, leading to the development of a superior younger generation with a strong national character,” the President remarked. (FID/UN) (RIF/MUR)
