On Hari Pendidikan Nasional, educators in Indonesia are called to reflect on the effectiveness of current English teaching methods. Many students excel at grammar but struggle with real communication, highlighting a critical gap in reading literacy and comprehension skills. Data from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) indicates that Indonesian students face significant challenges in understanding and interpreting texts. Experts emphasize the need for deep learning, where students engage in meaningful tasks that promote critical thinking and problem-solving. For instance, creating presentations about local tourism can help students use English authentically.

Furthermore, inclusive education is vital, as Indonesian classrooms are diverse, necessitating teaching practices that accommodate various abilities and backgrounds. This approach involves using visual aids and differentiated tasks to ensure all students can participate meaningfully without lowering expectations.

Literacy has evolved to include skills such as analyzing information and navigating digital content, with English being crucial for accessing global knowledge. As Indonesia strengthens its education system, the focus must shift from memorization to fostering understanding and inclusivity, ultimately leading to better educational outcomes for all.