Why have Teachers' Day?

From Media Indonesia

Dec. 2 is Teachers' Day, which we used commemorate when I was in elementary school. But I never did understand the purpose of this observance.

Some schools may mark the event out of tradition, without students realizing the reason. Ironically, these ceremonies have failed to improve the lives of most teachers.

Teachers still have to struggle to try and make ends meet. I would like to appeal to businesses to contribute money and help improve the welfare of people in this profession.

Politicians and government officials, who are certainly indebted to teachers, should pay greater attention to this particular issue.

JOHANES WAHJOE PRAMUDHITO Jakarta