EN.MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, MEDAN – The Central Board of Muhammadiyah President Haedar Nashir has called on new students at the Muhammadiyah University of North Sumatra (UMSU) to take pride in their alma mater while preparing themselves to become a generation capable of contributing to the nation.
Haedar delivered the message in his remarks at the opening of UMSU’s Students Orientation Program on Monday (28/9).
“My hope is that you must be proud of your alma mater. You made the right choice by coming to UMSU,” Haedar said.
According to Haedar, education is an important means of improving oneself. He reminded students that Allah raises the status of those who believe and possess knowledge. For this reason, seeking knowledge should be one of life’s fundamental goals.
“Seeking knowledge must become a fundamental goal for all of us,” he stressed.
Haedar also said that studying at Muhammadiyah and ‘Aisyiyah Universities (PTMA) is not merely an academic process, but also part of learning how to navigate life. Students, therefore, need to build and maintain good character, attitudes and conduct.
One expression of good character, Haedar continued, is to consistently respect and treat one’s parents well.
“Good character means always respecting and treating our parents well,” he said.
Education and the Nation’s Future
Haedar further called on the entire academic community and different elements of society to work together to build the nation’s civilization. Education, he said, has a strategic role in realizing that aspiration.
“Therefore, education is a strategic pillar for building this nation’s civilization,” Haedar said.
Concluding his remarks, Haedar reminded students to develop independence as they build their futures. In his view, people should not leave their fate in the hands of others. Change must begin with self-awareness and personal effort.
“Our future depends on us. We should not leave it to others. That is the awareness of independence in building ourselves and our nation. Muhammadiyah has always maintained a noble commitment to building Indonesia,” he concluded. (Andiva)
