UNY Proud: Koko Triantoro, Alumnus of Science Education Program, Receives Indonesia Teacher Award 2025 from the President

The Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta, proudly celebrates the achievement of Koko Triantoro, alumnus of the Science Education (IPA) undergraduate program, class of 2007. Koko received the prestigious Indonesia Teacher Award 2025, presented directly by the President of the Republic of Indonesia, Prabowo Subianto, during the National Teachers’ Day Commemoration at Indonesia Arena, Jakarta (28/11/2025). Currently serving as the Principal of SDN Embacang Lama, South Sumatra, Koko was honored as a Frontier Teacher (Guru Garda Terpencil) for his remarkable dedication in remote and underdeveloped regions (3T areas). His contributions extend beyond classroom teaching—he initiated community-based solutions such as simple bridges, educational boats, literacy campaigns, and facility improvement programs for children in isolated villages. Koko’s strong commitment traces back to his years as a student in the Science Education Department at UNY. While completing his studies, he also lived at Al Luqmaniyah Islamic Boarding School, balancing academic life, religious study, and community engagement. Dr. Maryati, M.Si., lecturer at the Department of Science Education, fondly recalls him as: “A determined, hard-working student with strong resolve. Even during his university days, he consistently showed deep care for the community. It’s no surprise he has now become a transformative educator,” she noted. Upon receiving the award, Koko reflected on the inequality he witnessed firsthand during his teaching journey: “Educational gaps in remote areas are extremely wide. As a teacher, I wanted to do something to reduce those inequalities,” he said. He also expressed gratitude for the government’s support toward 3T regions, including recent provisions of digital learning devices. Koko Triantoro’s achievement highlights the strength of UNY alumni who are equipped not only with pedagogical competence but also social commitment and leadership. His award stands as an inspiration for future educators: meaningful education grows from sincere dedication, even in the most remote corners of the nation.