A teacher's wish

A teacher's wish

From Suara Karya

I am a grade school teacher in a small village in Central Java. I have been a teacher for 36 years. I am 55. When I retire at 60, I shall have worked 41 years.

I say "thank you" to the gratitude expressed to teachers, both from students and the community. But what is the meaning of the word "thank you" for persons like me who, on retirement, will only receive the taspen (pension) and other savings originating from deductions of our own salaries. It means that the money received is one's own money.

At times I feel jealous when I watch TV programs where a government official with less service obtains an award. Likewise athletes, who are declared meritorious toward the state and obtain an abundance of presents, a house or a car. But for a retired teacher, the money from the taspen is barely sufficient to pay one's debts.

Therefore, I appeal to the authorities to think of teachers. Do not give us only a "thank you". Put those of us with over 30 years of dedication on a par with Armed Forces members and athletes. The appreciation does not have to be an automobile or a house, but something that is useful to us.

If this appeal is responded to, I will say thank you.

Mrs. ISMIRAH

Banyumas, Central Java