Technology has now transformed the entire social and cultural order. These changes are abundantly evident today and can be seen directly in the current younger generation. From the presence of AI and Media Algorithms to Machine Learning, these tools serve not only to facilitate information retrieval but have also become "learning partners" for the youth.

Nevertheless, technology—like all worldly concepts in general—possesses capabilities that tend to be limited by the physical world and the mindset of the users employing these systems.

As we commemorate National Teachers' Day, which we will celebrate again on November 25, 2025, let us revisit the meaning of a teacher, a lecturer, and an educator in general. Let us reflect on how they sculpt the world, not only from an academic perspective but also from a humanist one. We uplift the grand theme from the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology (Kemendikbud Ristek): “Great Teachers, Strong Indonesia” (Guru Hebat, Indonesia Kuat).

Amidst the rise of automation, the role of educators is now more than merely delivering educational material and propounding theories to students.

The rapid current of modern life, which demands both time and social compliance, tends to obscure our perspective on pursuing knowledge from a spiritual standpoint. Furthermore, driven by social and economic demands, some of us tend to seek knowledge solely for personal gain.

As unsung heroes, teachers, lecturers, and educators serve not only as inspirers, motivators, and role models for their students. Through the role of great educators, the younger generation is equipped not only to be resilient, creative, and competitive in the industrial world but also to possess national spirit, strong character, moral integrity, and mental health.

Moreover, this National Teachers' Day reminds us of the importance of educators amidst modernity through an educational approach that combines comprehensive contextual explanations—something that cannot be fully achieved by AI or machine learning.

In a scientific oration delivered by Mr. Sandiaga Salahuddin Uno during the 3rd Graduation and 6th Dies Natalis of Universitas Dian Nusantara (UNDIRA) on November 1, 2025, he emphasized that education (and teachers generally) is now a form of lifelong learning. This facilitates dynamic learning between educators and students, creating a knowledge-sharing ecosystem that far surpasses the normative and often context-free nature of AI and machine learning.

Furthermore, an educator plays a role in opening students' interests to various doors of knowledge by nurturing the intention to seek knowledge and fostering curiosity to develop various concepts and renewable innovations in the long term.

The commemoration of National Teachers' Day 2025 is not merely a periodic symbolic event. It is a commitment for all educational elements and the nation to prove the active role of educators, as well as the concept of education itself, as a benchmark for developing a young generation that is not only skilled but also characterized by good morals. Teachers, lecturers, and educators are the light that drives the younger generation toward a future defined by vision, integrity, and professionalism. Happy Indonesian National Teachers' Day! Great Teachers, Strong Indonesia.

Source of Reference: 

Hari Guru Nasional 2025: Tantangan dan Harapan Guru Indonesia

(Danang Respati Wicaksono / Humas UNDIRA)