MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, JAKARTA – Pancasila as the state ideology and Bhinneka Tunggal Ika (Unity in Diversity) are facing serious challenges due to inadequate efforts in disseminating, internalizing, and practicing Pancasila values in daily life.
In response to these pressing concerns, the Center for Cultural Studies and Social Change of Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta (PSBPS UMS) has embarked on a mission to strengthen Pancasila ideology within national consciousness through cultural and pedagogical approaches.
The initiative, titled “Revitalization, Institutionalization, and Standardization of Pancasila Education in Indonesian Higher Education” (RISP3TI), aims to deepen the understanding of Pancasila among lecturers and students enrolled in compulsory Pancasila and Citizenship courses. The program delves into three dimensions of Pancasila: knowledge, belief and internalization, and practical application.
This year, PSBPS UMS is expanding the geographical reach of the RISP3TI National Training Program. Yayah Khisbiyah, Executive Director of PSBPS UMS, emphasizes the strategic importance of revitalizing and institutionalizing Pancasila education in universities as a long-term and sustainable approach to social transformation.
“Amidst the decline of democracy, the erosion of exemplary national leadership, and various violations of Pancasila principles, this program is expected to shape the critical-constructive thinking patterns of students so that they can understand, believe in, and apply the values of Pancasila, which Muhammadiyah upholds as the darul ahdi wal syahadah (Indonesia as a nation built on a covenant and a commitment to Pancasila principles),” explained Yayah as quoted in a press release on Thursday (April 25).
Yayah further explains that the ultimate goal of this program is positive social change in improving governance and fostering peaceful, inclusive, just, and civilized nation-building.
Meanwhile, in his opening remarks, Ma’mun Murod, Rector of Universitas Muhammadiyah Jakarta, highlights the significance of comprehending Pancasila as a middle-ground philosophy characterized by wasathiyah (moderation), not extremism.
“Pancasila is the outcome of a dialectical process between various perspectives on the state ideology, creating a synthesis that aligns with fundamental Islamic values,” clarifies Ma’mun.
Ma’mun recommends Pancasila as a tool for criticizing current deviations and violations of democracy.
He underscores that a profound understanding of Pancasila as a middle-ground philosophy can help prevent polarization and extremism in society.
“By grasping that Pancasila is a synthesis that accommodates diverse perspectives and values, it is hoped that the younger generation can become agents of change who steer Indonesia towards a better future,” concludes Ma’mun.
