"We Must Help our Sumatranese Brothers," Calls the Rector of UIN Jakarta at the 138th Graduation Ceremony
TMII, UIN Online News — The Rector of Syarif Hidayatullah State Islamic University Jakarta, Prof. Asep Saepudin Jahar, M.A., Ph.D., called on newly graduated students during the 138th Open Senate Session for Undergraduate, Master’s, and Doctoral Graduation, held at Taman Mini Indonesia Indah (TMII), Jakarta, on Tuesday (2/12/2025).
First, the Rector invited graduates and the broader academic community to extend solidarity to the victims of natural disasters in Sumatra. He encouraged attendees to offer prayers and contribute donations to support those impacted by the recent calamity.
"While we are celebrating your achievement, however, there is suffering happening outside this room. This is where we must prove our integrity as academics by sharing kindness to humanity. We are grateful for the donation of whatever you can afford to give," he called.
In addition, he stated that academic spirit must also be matched by perseverance and determination to achieve one’s aspirations. His remarks adopted the theme “Scholarly Graduates: Weaving Global Knowledge Networks through Digital Innovation Rooted in Spirituality.”
Asep Saipudin Jahar noted that the grand commencement celebration underscores the achievements of UIN Jakarta students who successfully completed their studies despite the various challenges encountered throughout their academic journey.
“Thank you to all parents who have accompanied your children to this moment. You must be proud of your son and daughter, who are now appointed bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral graduates. May they grow into righteous individuals who contribute meaningfully to our nation. Amen,” he conveyed.
He acknowledged that students’ academic experiences were not free from difficulties, including communication dynamics, supervisory interactions, and other unexpected moments. He reminded the graduates that academic records alone are not a guarantee of success.
“I must say that your GPA is not the only asset you have. Trust me, you are more than what you are. It is just an opportunity that led you to a brighter future, and I believe that you will,” he encouraged.
Asep Saipudin Jahar went on to highlight that determination grounded in strong moral character often proves more decisive than perfect academic scores.
“The most essential value is one’s character. When personality falls below intellect, failure may already be in sight. But those with strong character will continue striving. That is it: the true foundation for success,” he explained.
The Rector of UIN Jakarta also outlined several institutional achievements, including UIN Jakarta’s placement in the QS World University Rankings (WUR) Asia within the 801–850 cluster. In the same ranking, UIN Jakarta is listed among the top 42 universities in Indonesia and secured the highest position among Islamic Higher Education Institutions under the Ministry of Religious Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia.
“There are certainly areas where we can improve in our curricula and facilities, but there are also strengths that set us apart from other universities. Since then, our lecturers and staff have taught you with the utmost commitment, and you need to appreciate it,” he added.
(Meisa Aqilah N.H/Zaenal M./Fauziah M./Muhamad Arifin Ilham/Photo: Muhammad Yahya)