Daftarsbmptn.com – To commemorate National Teachers’ Day, the Surabaya City Government, in collaboration with the Education Office, held a Mothers of Teachers Talkshow with the theme “Teachers with Dignity, Great Surabaya” at Surabaya City Hall on Monday (November 10, 2025). The event was attended by hundreds of teachers from various levels of education, from preschool to high school, as well as several educational figures and regional officials.
The talkshow served as a forum for reflection and appreciation for educators who have played a significant role in shaping the character and future of the younger generation. This activity also formed part of a series of Surabaya City Government programs to improve the quality of education and strengthen the moral, ethical, and professional values of teachers.
The Importance of Teacher Dignity in Education
In his remarks, Surabaya Mayor Eri Cahyadi emphasized that teachers are a key pillar in building the nation. He stated that dignified teachers will produce students with character, intelligence, and a strong social spirit.
“Teachers don’t just teach knowledge, they also instill life values. Through the theme ‘Teachers with Dignity, Great Surabaya,’ we want to emphasize that this city’s progress is inseparable from the role of educators,” said Eri.
He also expressed his appreciation to all teachers in Surabaya who continue to innovate amidst the challenges of modern education. The city government, Eri said, is committed to strengthening support through various welfare programs and professional development training for teachers.
Talkshow Full of Inspiration and Motivation
The talkshow, hosted by the Mother of Surabaya Teachers, Rini Indriyani, was warm and inspiring. Rini, known for her active involvement in social and educational activities, invited teachers to share their experiences and challenges in educating the younger generation in the digital era.
“Being a teacher today isn’t just about teaching in the classroom; it also means being a mentor, motivator, and even a substitute parent in the school environment,” she said. She emphasized the importance of maintaining the dignity of the teaching profession by strengthening character, ethics, and a spirit of service.
During the discussion session, several teachers shared inspiring stories about their struggles in the field. One of them, Siti Nurhayati, an elementary school teacher in the Tambaksari area, shared her experience teaching children from underprivileged families. “For me, the greatest joy isn’t just when students get high grades, but when they grow in confidence and dare to dream,” she said, drawing applause from the audience.
The Role of Teachers in the Digital Age
Another issue discussed in the talk show was the challenges facing education in the digital age. Speakers highlighted how technology has brought significant changes to learning methods and teacher-student interactions.
The Head of the Surabaya City Education Office, Yayuk Eko Agustin, explained that teachers must continuously adapt to keep up with technological developments. “Today’s teachers need to have digital literacy skills. Technology should be a tool, not a substitute for the role of teachers,” she said.
She also added that the Surabaya Education Office has prepared various digital training programs for teachers, including the use of online learning platforms, interactive media development, and creative, technology-based teaching strategies.
Appreciation for Inspirational Teachers
During the event, the Surabaya City Government presented special awards to several teachers deemed highly dedicated to carrying out their duties. The awards were given to five inspirational teachers from various schools, both public and private.
One of the award recipients, Agus Santoso, a junior high school teacher in East Surabaya, expressed his gratitude for the recognition. “This award is not just for me, but for all teachers who remain passionate about teaching despite various limitations. We will continue to strive to be role models for our students,” she said.
Rini Indriyani hopes this award will motivate other teachers to continue working and giving their best to the world of education. “A teacher’s dignity is not only determined by their position or academic achievements, but also by their dedication and sincerity in teaching,” she added.
Collaboration between Government and Community
The talk show “Teachers with Dignity, Great Surabaya” also emphasized the importance of collaboration between the government, schools, and the community. Mayor Eri Cahyadi emphasized that education is not solely the responsibility of teachers, but also a shared responsibility of all elements of the city.
“Teachers cannot work alone. The role of parents, the community, and the business world is also crucial in creating a healthy and sustainable educational environment,” he said. The Surabaya City Government plans to expand collaboration with various parties to improve the quality of education through literacy, character, and teacher welfare programs.
Messages and Hopes for Teachers’ Day
Towards the end of the event, the talk show participants conveyed their messages and hopes that the teaching profession would be increasingly respected and strengthened on a sustainable basis. They also hoped that the government would continue to pay attention to the welfare of honorary teachers and provide more adequate learning facilities.
“Teachers’ dignity must be maintained by providing real support, starting from welfare, training, to policies that support quality education,” said one participant, Nurul Hidayah, a junior high school teacher in West Surabaya.
The talk show concluded with a choir performance by representatives of Surabaya teachers singing “Teacher’s Hymn.” A sense of emotion enveloped the room as the teachers stood together, proudly singing a song that reflected their dedication to education.
Conclusion
The Mother of Teachers’ Talkshow “Teachers with Dignity, Surabaya is Great” was a significant momentum in strengthening the spirit and dignity of the teaching profession in the city of Surabaya. Through this activity, the city government and educators committed to continuing to work together to build a competitive, character-based, and equitable education system.
With the support of all parties, Surabaya is expected to continue to produce a generation that is not only intellectually intelligent, but also socially minded and possesses high integrity reflecting the true spirit of the event’s overarching theme: “Teachers with Dignity, Surabaya is Great.”