MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, YOGYAKARTA – The Central Board of ‘Aisyiyah has intensified efforts to support kindergarten teachers as they prepare to resume learning activities following school holidays and a series of recent disasters across Indonesia. The initiative focuses on teachers at ‘Aisyiyah Bustanul Athfal Kindergartens (TK ABA).
During a coordination and briefing session held on Sunday (04/01) in Yogyakarta, Salmah Orbayinah, President of ‘Aisyiyah Central Board, emphasized the importance of readiness, resilience, and collective solidarity in post-disaster education. She began by expressing appreciation to the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education for its sustained attention to early childhood educators.
“We extend our sincere thanks to the ministry for its full support for kindergarten teachers, including those at ABA schools,” Salmah said. “This includes school kits and direct assistance for teachers, which are crucial in the recovery phase.
Moreover, she acknowledged the broader public and members of ‘Aisyiyah who worked together to clean damaged school buildings and provide relief for affected communities. According to Salmah, this collective action reflects the strong social roots of ‘Aisyiyah as a women’s movement grounded in service and education.
Importantly, she also praised ABA teachers who confirmed their readiness to return to classrooms despite facing personal losses. Many teachers, she noted, were themselves victims of the disasters.
“These teachers were affected as well,” Salmah said. “Yet they continue to show commitment and determination to carry out their educational mandate.”
Education, Da’wah, and Collective Recovery
Furthermore, Salmah encouraged teachers to keep the spirit of ‘Aisyiyah educational mission alive. Since its founding, she said, ‘Aisyiyah has consistently expanded access to learning for young children, even under difficult conditions. Therefore, restarting classroom activities represent both an educational and a moral responsibility.
“With all the struggle and dedication involved, ‘Aisyiyah continues to contribute to the vision of Indonesia’s Golden Generation 2045,” she added.
In addition, Salmah highlighted ongoing consolidation efforts within the organization. These include fundraising, psychosocial support services, kitchen equipment assistance, and direct support for teachers. All of these actions, she explained, are being coordinated with the Muhammadiyah Disaster Management Center under the One Muhammadiyah One Response (OMOR) framework. (Bintang Adrian)
