Muhammadiyah is expanding its international reach not only through establishing Muhammadiyah special branches (PCIM) overseas but also through education. In the field of education, Muhammadiyah universities are encouraged to gain international rankings to attract foreign students. Currently, there are thousands of foreign students interested in studying at Muhammadiyah universities.
Out of 172 Muhammadiyah-’Aisyiyah higher education institutions, 12 have achieved the prestigious accreditation of Excellent (Unggul) Institution. However, only two universities achieved international rankings, namely Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta (UMY) and Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta (UMS).
Irwan Akib, Chairperson of Muhammadiyah for Education, Culture, and Sports, is determined to see more Muhammadiyah-’Aisyiyah higher education institutions achieve international recognition. He wants them to move beyond national prominence and compete on the global stage.
“Out of 172 institutions, we have one in Malaysia,” mentioned Irwan Akib.
The benefits of international rankings are clear. Universities like UMS and UMY, which have already achieved international recognition, have seen a surge of interest from foreign students.
“UMS recently reported a staggering 8,000 applications from international students, while UMY receives no less than 6,000 applications annually. With limited spots available, competition is fierce.
Entering international rankings will increase the interest of foreign students to continue their education at these universities, such as UMS and UMY which have recently received thousands of applicants from foreign students.
“We have good news, UMS has received 8,000 foreign student applicants, Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta University receives no less than 6,000 foreign student applicants every year, and of course not all are accepted,” said Irwan Akib.
Irwan Akib hopes that more Muhammadiyah-’Aisyiyah higher education institutions will join the ranks of internationally recognized institutions. He envisions a network of universities working together, striving for excellence, and ultimately contributing to the betterment of their communities, the nation, and humanity as a whole.
