International Community Service (KKN) Program UIN Jakarta 2024: Bringing Indonesian Cultural Diversity to the Holy Land

Ciputat, UIN News Online — UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta has launched its International Community Service (KKN) program to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This program aims to introduce the richness of Indonesian culture to the educational communities in Jeddah, Mecca, and Riyadh.

Among the 10 students involved in this program are Hawa Dita Al Muqmin, Muhammad Fakhry, Rizqi Shohibul Khotam, Mahira Fikriya from Economics and Business, and Njabatussahiroh.

Furthermore, Nailatunnajah, Sofa Latansa Bikafi, Ghina Widia Saiddah, Syafaatul Ulya, and Anisa Nur Afraljah.

Coordinator of the Community Service Center (PPM) UIN Jakarta, Kaula Fahmi, M.Hum., explained that this year's KKN theme remains focused on education and culture, consistent with previous years. "The duration of KKN this time remains the same, lasting for one month, from early August to late August," said Kaula Fahmi on Tuesday (11/6/2024).

"We have established ongoing collaboration with Indonesian Schools in Saudi Arabia to introduce Indonesian culture to Indonesian students studying there," he added.

Ghina Widia Saiddah, a student of Law at the Faculty of Sharia and Law, stated that their group plans to implement four main programs: education, creative economy, health, and environment effectively and sustainably. Additionally, they will organize performances showcasing Indonesian cultural arts in commemoration of Indonesia's 79th Independence Day at Indonesian schools in Saudi Arabia.

"We will present distinctive Indonesian arts to introduce our culture to the children of Indonesian migrant workers studying there. We will also conduct the 'KKN Teaching' program with learning-through-play methods and traditional Indonesian cooking practices," Ghina explained on Thursday (13/6/2024).

Meanwhile, Rizqi Shohibul Khotami, a student of Hadith Studies at the Faculty of Usuluddin, will focus on academic activities that support thesis research. "This program will also involve interactions with scholars and sheikhs in Saudi Arabia to support academic interests, including thesis research," said Rizqi on Thursday (13/6/2024).

Regarding preparations, he continued, their group has arranged about five locations for passport and visa processing, which will be finalized by June 16. They will also hold a gathering (Sarasehan) with alumni of the International KKN in Saudi Arabia to share experiences.

"We are currently submitting sponsorship proposals and approaching potential donors to support the smooth implementation of this program, with a target completion by the end of June," he concluded.

Through this International KKN, UIN Jakarta not only explores educational and cultural dimensions but also strengthens international cooperation to bolster friendship between Indonesia and Saudi Arabia through education. (Ken Devina/Fauziah M./Raihan Lail)