Alumni-Led Scholarship Initiative Opens New Opportunities for 50 UIN Jakarta Students
Tangsel, UIN NewsOnline — Fifty students from the Faculty of Adab and Humanities at UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta have received scholarships through an alumni-led initiative aimed at ensuring that financial barriers do not stand in the way of academic success.
The scholarship program, funded by the Aby Makruf Foundation (AMF), was established by alumni of the University's English Literature Program who sought to give back to the institution and support students facing economic challenges. Through the initiative, a total of IDR 150 million has been distributed to 50 high-achieving students from low-income backgrounds.
Presented during a ceremony at the Abdul Ghani Theatre on 15 January, the awards were granted to students from various stages of study within the English Literature Program, each receiving financial assistance to help cover educational expenses and support their academic journey.
For the founders of the foundation, the initiative represents more than a scholarship program—it is an investment in future generations.
Woro Indah Sitoresmi, S.S., M.Pd., representing the foundation, explained that AMF was created with a simple mission: to help talented students complete their education regardless of their financial circumstances.
"We believe that many capable students simply need an opportunity and a support system. Through this program, we hope to contribute, even in a small way, to their academic journey and future success," she said.
Chairman of the foundation, Aby Makruf, S.S., M.B.A., drew on his own experience as a former student to underline the importance of educational support.
"Access to education should not be determined by economic background. We hope this scholarship eases financial pressures and allows students to focus on learning, developing their potential, and pursuing their aspirations," he said.
The scholarship recipients described the program as both practical assistance and a source of motivation. Beyond helping to cover educational costs, the support enables students to invest in learning resources, academic development, and future opportunities while reducing the financial burden on their families.
Inayatul Chusna, M.Hum., Head of the English Literature Program, welcomed the initiative as a meaningful example of alumni engagement and social responsibility.
She noted that partnerships between universities, alumni, and philanthropic organizations are becoming increasingly important in expanding access to higher education and supporting student success.
The scholarship program reflects a growing culture of alumni philanthropy at UIN Jakarta, demonstrating how graduates can continue contributing to the University's mission long after completing their studies. By investing in today's students, the initiative aims to create opportunities that will extend far beyond the classroom and help shape the next generation of graduates and leaders.