"Digital Innovation Must Go Hand in Hand with Islamic Ethics," Says the Rector of UIN Jakarta
Harun Nasution Auditorium, UIN Online News — Rector of UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta, Prof. Asep Saepuddin Jahar, M.A., Ph.D., called on graduates to be grateful for their academic achievements while preparing to face the challenges of life in the era of Industry 5.0. The message was delivered during the university’s 137th Graduation Ceremony at the Harun Nasution Auditorium on Saturday (August 30, 2025).
In his keynote address, Prof. Asep emphasized that this year’s graduation theme was deliberately chosen to highlight the integration of digital innovation and Islamic ethics in building a sustainable civilization in the age of technological transformation. He expressed hope that graduates would merge academic competence with spiritual and ethical strength.
"This graduation theme was intentionally selected to address digital innovation and Islamic ethics as key components in shaping a sustainable civilization in the era of Industry 5.0," he explained.
He also highlighted the outstanding academic achievements among the graduates, with some earning a Grade Point Average (GPA) as high as 3.9, reflecting their dedication and focus. However, he stressed that grades are not the sole measure of success.
"A high GPA is commendable, but mental resilience is equally important. Don’t give up after just one rejection. Don’t be passive; keep moving. In religious terms, that is what we call maintaining connections (silaturahmi)," he said.
During his speech, the Rector invited graduates to recognize their unique identity as individuals created with purpose. He even led them in a reflective declaration:
"Hey, I am a special person, created by God as the only one in history. Be conscious of this—to grow and live righteously in this world," he urged.
He further reminded graduates that true success lies not only in academic accomplishments but also in the ability to face challenges with optimism.
"Yesterday, Prof. Mu’ti (Minister of Primary and Secondary Education of Indonesia) said, 'It is fine to admit something is difficult—but never say, "It is impossible." That is forbidden. You may say, ‘This is difficult, but I will find a way to make it possible,’" he quoted.
In closing, the Rector reaffirmed that UIN Jakarta graduates are valuable individuals with outstanding potential to benefit the community. He concluded his address with a prayer for their continued success, health, and devotion to their parents.
"May your lives be long, your health be sustained, your sustenance be abundant, and may you always honor your parents," he prayed.
(Nosa Idea L./Zaenal M./Fauziah M./Nazwa Adawiyah S./Photo: Aqilah Qurrotulaini)