On Tuesday, June 24, 2025, Pati English Teachers Association (PESTA) marked a pivotal moment in its journey — a leadership transition combined with a progressive seminar on the role of AI in English teaching. The event, held at SMA Negeri 1 Pati, reflected both organizational renewal and a forward-looking vision in the digital era.
The event began with an opening and a collective prayer. This was followed by the singing of the Indonesian national anthem, “Indonesia Raya,” led by Mrs. Evi Dwi Nuryanti, S.Pd as the conductor. The atmosphere was solemn and respectful, setting a unified tone for the day’s activities.
The first welcoming remarks were delivered by the host, Mr. Alek Suhartono, S.Pd., M.Pd., Principal of SMA Negeri 1 Pati. In his speech, he emphasized three essential points: how to make English a subject that students love, the importance of using varied teaching methods to avoid student boredom, and the need to give students opportunities to be confident and skilled in speaking English.
Next, Mrs. Dra. Retna Widowati, M.Pd., the outgoing Chair of MGMP (2022–2025), delivered her final address. She reflected on the role of teachers in the AI era, highlighting that while technology may master content, it can never replace the emotional connection and long-lasting impact that teachers have on students. She reminded fellow teachers to continue inspiring students to enjoy learning English.
The new Chairperson for the 2025–2028 period, Mr. Yuche Yahya Sukaca, S.Pd., M.Pd., then shared his vision for the organization under the banner of PESTA (Pati English Teachers Association). He emphasized the value of building a positive, sharing-oriented community. “Any positive thing we have, we must share,” he stated. He also introduced one of PESTA’s new initiatives: standardizing student worksheets across schools to promote consistency and collaboration.
The newly appointed board members of PESTA for the 2025–2028 period were then formally introduced to the participants. The leadership structure is as follows:
- Chairperson: Mr. Yuche Yahya Sukaca, S.Pd., M.Pd.
- Vice Chairperson: Mrs. Palita Ruhamaningtyas, S.Pd.
- Treasurers: Mrs. Dyah Nursanti, S.Pd., M.Pd. and Mrs. Kristina Marta Widayanti, S.Pd.
- Secretaries: Mrs. Linda Mulyani, S.Pd. and Mrs. Devi Liviana Wati, S.Pd.
- Head of Administration and Facilities: Mrs. Ramini, S.Pd.
- Head of Public Relations and Partnerships: Ms. Fatwa Ismi Fazira, S.Pd.
- Head of Program Planning: Mrs. Romandhani Laila Kusuma, S.Pd.
- Head of Organizational Development: Mrs. Evi Dwi Nuryanti, S.Pd.
Following the leadership handover, the members held a collaborative session to align concepts and formats for MGMP learning modules, ensuring consistency with current curriculum frameworks while encouraging creative teaching strategies.
The main highlight of the event was a seminar entitled:
“Optimizing the Role of English Teachers in the Digital Era: Utilizing AI as an Innovative Teaching Strategy.”
This seminar emphasized the effective use of tools like Gemini and other AI platforms in the classroom. Teachers were encouraged to use AI to boost their talents—not to replace them. The speaker reminded everyone that students should not be forbidden from using AI; rather, they should be taught to use it wisely as a tool for learning, especially in developing listening and speaking skills.
In the final segment of the seminar, participants engaged in hands-on practice using Gemini to explore its potential in supporting English language learning. The session demonstrated how AI tools can help sharpen various language skills — particularly speaking, but also listening, writing, and vocabulary development. This practical experience inspired many teachers to explore new and meaningful ways of integrating technology into their classroom routines.
The event concluded with a closing session, wrapping up a day full of collaboration, reflection, and innovation. With its new leadership and renewed vision, PESTA is set to continue empowering English teachers across Pati Regency—through both tradition and transformation.
Success to the Pesta Management team this period and always be harmonious