MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, YOGYAKARTA – Chairperson of the Muhammadiyah Council for Higher Education, Research, and Development Prof. Bambang Setiaji gave a public lecture on Islam and Muhammadiyah Teaching (AIK) on Tuesday, October 8.
In the lecture attended virtually by 103,000 new Muhammadiyah-’Aisyiyah students across Indonesia and in Malaysia, Bambang mentioned that Islam emphasizes the importance of the balance between worldly and spiritual pursuits. He hoped that the new students
“I am pleased to see so many new students enrolling at Muhammadiyah-’Aisyiyah universities. Developing both hard skills and soft skills is essential, and Muhammadiyah-’Aisyiyah universities provide a balanced education that encompasses intellectual, physical, and spiritual competencies. This is one of the characteristics of Muhammadiyah education, which always emphasizes the balance between worldly and spiritual pursuits,” said Bambang.
Bambang highlighted the unique advantages of studying at Muhammadiyah-’Aisyiyah universities, which offer a comprehensive understanding of Islam that is timeless and relevant to modern times. The rich intellectual heritage of Islam, he explained, has been preserved for over 1,500 years.
“With a comprehensive understanding of Islam, we will learn the noble values of this religion that have endured for 1,500 years and are in harmony with modernity. The comprehensive curriculum and extracurricular activities at Muhammadiyah-’Aisyiyah universities provide students with abundant opportunities to learn and grow,” he added.
In conclusion, Bambang encouraged the new students to cultivate spiritual resilience to navigate the challenges of a rapidly changing world. He emphasized the need for a strong spiritual foundation to withstand the uncertainties of life.
“To face change, we need a balanced and strong spiritual foundation,” Prof. Bambang concluded.
With over 618,000 students currently enrolled in Muhammadiyah-’Aisyiyah universities across Indonesia, the welcoming address from Bambang is expected to inspire the new generation of students to pursue their academic goals with enthusiasm and a strong sense of purpose. The university’s emphasis on balanced growth, combining academic excellence with spiritual development, is seen as a key factor in shaping future leaders who can contribute positively to society.
