As education systems worldwide confront the dual challenge of equity and quality, the professional status of teachers has emerged as a decisive factor in sustaining inclusive and resilient learning ecosystems. In Indonesia, the Ministry of Religious Affairs (MoRA) continues to position madrasah teachers—particularly those in private institutions—as central actors in national education reform.

This commitment was reaffirmed by Secretary General of the Ministry of Religious Affairs, Kamaruddin Amin, during a high-level meeting with Heri Purnama, Chair of the National Association of Madrasah Teachers of Indonesia (PGMNI), at the Ministry’s headquarters in Jakarta. The discussion focused on policy pathways to expand access for private madrasah teachers to become Government Employees under Contract (PPPK)—a scheme designed to strengthen job security, professional recognition, and institutional stability.

“We remain fully committed to pursuing productive policy measures that uphold the dignity of teachers,” Kamaruddin Amin stated. He emphasised that the Ministry continues to explore all available regulatory and fiscal opportunities to enable honorary and private madrasah teachers to transition into the PPPK framework where possible.

Beyond employment status, the Ministry is accelerating efforts to expand teacher certification programmes, recognising certification as a cornerstone of quality assurance and professional development. Currently, MoRA oversees 1.15 million teachers across madrasahs, Islamic boarding schools, and religious education institutions representing Islam, Christianity, Catholicism, Hinduism, Buddhism, and Confucianism. Of these, nearly 500,000 educators have yet to undergo formal certification.

According to Kamaruddin Amin, expanding certification coverage is integral to improving learning outcomes, strengthening institutional accountability, and ensuring the long-term sustainability of Indonesia’s religious education sector. “Teacher quality is a foundational pillar of the education ecosystem,” he noted.

PGMNI Chair Heri Purnama welcomed the Ministry’s continued engagement, expressing confidence that ongoing policy advocacy would translate into tangible progress for madrasah teachers nationwide.

By advancing teacher professionalisation, employment security, and certification, the Ministry of Religious Affairs reinforces its strategic role in nurturing a robust, inclusive, and future-ready madrasah education ecosystem—aligned with national development goals and global education standards.