MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, LAMONGAN – Muhammadiyah University of Lamongan (UMLA) has officially inaugurated a new landmark facility, the UMLA Dome, signaling a significant step in the university’s rapid development.
The inauguration coincided with UMLA’s 7th anniversary and was led by Muhammadiyah President Haedar Nashir, approximately 1,5 years after he laid the groundbreaking stone.
Rector Abdul Aziz Alimul Hidayat expressed hope that the UMLA Dome would symbolize educational progress in Lamongan. Over the past three years, UMLA has completed not only the Dome but also the UMLA Tower.
“Soon, there will be two more buildings, the Student Center and Sport Center, followed by the groundbreaking of the Business Incubator Center Building. This is part of the mandate from the Central Board of Muhammadiyah to strengthen economic empowerment,” Abdul said.
He added that UMLA has recorded significant progress, particularly in student enrollment, which has increased steadily year by year. Initially enrolling around 700 students, UMLA now admits more than 1,500 new students annually.
UMLA has also accelerated human resource development, requiring lecturers to pursue doctoral degrees. In terms of academic programs, the university has expanded from 14 to 23 study programs, as part of its push toward achieving “Excellent” (Unggul) accreditation. In the near future, UMLA plans to establish a Medical Education Program.
UMLA alumni have also made their mark internationally. “Each year, approximately 10-20 graduates work overseas,” Abdul noted.
Recognizing this rapid growth, Chairman of the East Java Muhammadiyah Provincial Board (PWM Jawa Timur), Sukadiono, expressed optimism that UMLA would soon join other leading Muhammadiyah universities in the province.
“Out of eight Muhammadiyah universities in East Java, five have already achieved excellent accreditation. God willing, UMLA is clearly on that path,” Sukadiono said.
In addition to the UMLA Dome inauguration, the event featured the launch of E-KTAM, UMLA Care, AUMKES Lamongan Holding, the signing of the inauguration plaque, and the groundbreaking of the UMLA Business Center Building. (Janu) (Translated by Bintang Adrian)
