Since 1994, November 25th has been celebrated as National Teachers’ Day in Indonesia, a day dedicated to honoring the invaluable contributions of educators across the nation. This significant observance was formalized by Presidential Decree Number 78 of 1994, during the administration of President Soeharto. National Teachers’ Day not only recognizes the essential role teachers play in shaping and developing the country’s human resources but also marks the historic founding of the Indonesian Teachers Association (PGRI) in 1945. 

We spoke with two teachers—an Indonesian and an expatriate—at Bali Island School about their teaching journeys.

Haris Prasetio
PE Teacher

• Please share briefly about your journey to becoming a teacher

I studied at an education university in Yogyakarta, a city rich in learning opportunities. My time there transformed me both academically and personally. I participated in student organizations and learned valuable lessons about leadership and teamwork. After years of hard work, I graduated with honors, feeling optimistic about my future. After graduation, I volunteered as an education facilitator with a non-governmental organization in Banten, West Java. I worked with local communities to improve access to education. This experience helped me learn about new cultures, enhance my teamwork skills, and gain project management experience.

• Please share a moment in your teaching career that made you feel incredibly proud 

The whole journey as a teacher has been a proud moment. I have taught at several schools both nationally and internationally, and I explored educational technology in Jakarta before settling in Bali, where I now teach at Bali Island School.

Becoming a teacher has been a journey filled with surprises and rewards. I have learned how to connect with children in creative and playful ways. Sometimes, I even embrace my inner child by pretending to be a frog to teach them how to jump. Although I don’t have children of my own yet, I find immense joy and fulfillment in guiding their development. For me, teaching is more than just a profession—it is truly a calling.

• Describe TEACHER in three words:

Fun, Learn, Staying-young!

Teaching has taken me to new places, boosted me with fresh perspectives, and allowed me to grow in ways I never imagined. For me, being a teacher isn’t just about imparting knowledge—it’s about having fun, constantly learning, and staying young at heart. It’s about touching lives and, in return, being transformed by them.

Simran Sinha
Grade 4A PYP Homeroom Tutor

• Please share briefly about your journey to becoming a teacher

I started teaching in 2015, straight after graduating. Since then, I’ve had the privilege of working in International Baccalaureate schools, teaching from Early Years to Primary Years Programme. I always aspired to be a teacher, inspired by my educators, who left a lasting impact on me.

Teaching is enriching as it allows me to be a changemaker in my students’ learning experiences. I aim to nurture changemakers, problem solvers, and lifelong learners who can make a positive difference in the world and I am glad to be contributing in those parts at Bali Island School here in Bali, Indonesia. 

• Please share a moment in your teaching career that made you feel incredibly proud 

A memorable moment in my teaching career occurred when I volunteered with Teach for India and had the opportunity to teach children at a Madarsa in Hyderabad, India. Witnessing the positive impact I could have on their lives and seeing them grow in confidence and curiosity was both a proud and humbling experience. It served as a powerful reminder of education’s ability to create change and reinforced my passion for teaching.

• Describe TEACHER in three words:
  • Inspiring
  • Transformative
  • Empowering