PORTALJABAR, BANDUNG CITY - Deputy Mayor of Bandung, Erwin, invited teachers to make their profession a path of worship to heaven.

This appeal was delivered when opening the Education Workshop and Seminar with the theme "Strengthening the Role of Teachers in Realizing Character Education and Conscious, Meaningful, and Enjoyable Learning" at the Gymnasium of the Indonesian Education University, Bandung City, Saturday (10/5/2025).

Erwin expressed his respect and emotion towards the teachers who were present. He quoted the hadith of the Prophet Muhammad SAW about the virtues of knowledgeable people, and called teachers a group whose knowledge will continue to flow in benefits, even after death.

"My heart trembled when I met the teacher. Because the Prophet said, people whose knowledge is beneficial, will continue to receive rewards. Mother and father are people who, God willing, will be safe in this world and the hereafter," said Erwin.

Erwin emphasized that the Bandung City Government is committed to supporting the improvement of teacher quality and welfare.

He mentioned plans to build educational facilities, including possible budgets for regular training and improving teachers' academic qualifications.

"We are reviewing it with the Education Office, including the possibility of a budget for facilities such as a gymnasium. In addition, there is also a free college program for underprivileged residents so that more teachers can pursue Masters and even Doctoral degrees," he added.

Erwin also highlighted the importance of a holistic teacher character: intellectual, spiritual, and emotional.

He hopes that teachers will be able to shape a young generation that is not only intelligent, but also independent, has good morals, and is able to pray for their parents.

"Teachers must have three main qualities: intellectual quality, emotional quality, and spiritual quality. Because only with that, teachers are able to educate students with different characters and backgrounds," he said.

He also touched on his personal experience of educating children in Islamic boarding schools with a semi-military system that fosters independence, as an example of effective character education.

Closing his statement, Erwin invited teachers to remain patient, sincere, and make the teaching profession a path of worship.

"Teaching is a noble profession. Intend every step as worship. Because the knowledge taught by teachers will continue to help until the end of life. Make the role of a teacher a path to Allah's heaven," he said. (Bandung City Communication and Information Service/rka)