MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, YOGYAKARTA – Muhammadiyah, through its Pendidikan Ulama Tarjih Muhammadiyah (PUTM/Muhammadiyah Education for Ulema-equivalent to a bachelor’s degree), is dedicated to cultivating a new generation of Islamic scholars equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to address contemporary challenges. Established in 1968, PUTM has been at the forefront of producing scholars who are well-versed in Islamic jurisprudence and interpretation.
The demand for qualified Islamic scholars is particularly crucial for Muhammadiyah to promote da’wa which is amar ma’ruf nahi munkar (enjoining what is right and forbidding what is wrong). Thus, it is crucial to have continuous support for the PUTM from diverse parties, including the Muhammadiyah Department of Charity Management (Lazismu).
“Through PUTM, we aim to produce scholars who have a deep understanding of Islam from its original sources and who are also proficient in various other fields relevant to their religious studie,” said Fahmi Muqiddas, a member of the Muhammadiyah Council for Religious Opinion and Tajdid, on the ‘Tarjih Muhammadiyah’ Scholarship award ceremony on Saturday, October 26.
To enhance the learning environment for PUTM students, the organization is planning to construct a new campus and dormitory in Prambanan. “We hope that by having a centralized campus, we can improve the effectiveness and efficiency of the educational process,” said Fahmi.
Lazismu has shown its commitment to supporting PUTM by providing scholarships to 146 students through its Sang Surya Scholarship program. This year, Lazismu has allocated Rp 481,800,000 to fund these scholarships.
“This shows Lazismu commitment to nurturing a new generation of competent and integrity-based ulama. We hope that this program will continue to produce scholars who can lead Muhammadiyah efforts to promote good and prevent evil,” said Ahmad Imam Mujadid Rais, the Chairperson of Lazismu.
By investing in the education of future ulama, Muhammadiyah aims to ensure the continuity of its mission and its ability to address the evolving needs of Muslims in Indonesia and beyond. The Sang Surya Scholarship program plays a crucial role in achieving this goal by providing financial support and fostering intellectual growth among aspiring Islamic scholars.
