Monday, June 30, 2025 – In the midst of a desert parched by spiritual drought, humanity longs for an oasis to soothe the soul. Universitas Dian Nusantara (UNDIRA) held a public lecture under the MKCU & MBKM program, raising a vital theme: "Islamic Religious Education in Facing the Challenges of the Digital Era and National Resilience." The event featured a distinguished speaker, Prof. Dr. Made Saihu, Vice Rector IV for Partnership, Innovation, Business, and Entrepreneurship at Universitas PTIQ Jakarta.

This event also marked a continuation of the academic partnership established between UNDIRA and PTIQ Jakarta. The lecture was held in a vibrant and enthusiastic atmosphere. Also in attendance were UNDIRA Vice Rector I, Ir. Margono Sugeng, and UNDIRA Director of Public Relations, Student Affairs, and Partnerships, Mr. Imam Priyono, representing Vice Rector III, Dr. Ir. Muhammad Hasanuddin Thoyieb, M.M.

In his opening address, Mr. Margono Sugeng emphasized the importance of religious foundations as a basis that not only nurtures tolerance but also strengthens national resilience amid the dynamics of a changing era.

“A strong foundation of religious education serves as a key pillar in shaping national character while preserving unity and the resilience of the state,” he stated.

The keynote lecture was delivered by Prof. Made Saihu, who presented a comprehensive discussion on the four phases of religious study: the Local, Canonical, Critical, and Global phases. He linked the understanding of religious knowledge to technological developments, framed within the disciplines of ‘Ulum al-Din’ (Religious Studies), Al-Fikr al-Islami (Islamic Thought), and Dirasat Islamiyyah (Islamic Studies). Prof. Saihu emphasized the importance of safeguarding the integrity of Islamic understanding, as reflected in Surah Al-A‘la, through continuous reading, study, and reflection—so the community remains united. 

“The first scientists were Muslims, who never separated religious knowledge from scientific inquiry. Both must be pursued in balance to advance the ummah and our civilization,” he expressed with confidence.

The event concluded with closing remarks and reflections from Mr. Imam Priyono, who underscored that religion and technology cannot be separated in modern life. 

“The integration of faith and technology must be a central concern in the development of both education and national resilience,” he emphasized.

This public lecture provided new perspectives and awakened awareness that Islamic religious education remains relevant and essential—serving as a strong foundation to face the challenges of the digital era while safeguarding religious resilience and the noble spiritual values of Indonesia.

(Luthfi Alhazami / Kepala Pusat Mata Kuliah Wajib Umum)

Press Contact :

Biro Humas & Sekretariat Universitas Dian Nusantara

[email protected]

Facebook : www.facebook.com/undiraofficial
Instagram : www.instagram.com/undiraofficial
Twitter : www.twitter.com/undiraofficial
www.undira.ac.id