From a Local Conversation to a National Vision

It was a warm afternoon on June 2, 2025, when the leadership of UIN Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta entered the office of the Regent of Sleman. What followed was not merely a courtesy visit—it was a dialogue between two institutions deeply rooted in service, education, and the future of Indonesia.

Rector Prof. Noorhaidi Hasan, S.Ag., M.A., M.Phil., Ph.D., together with top university officials, including Dr. Abdur Rozaki, Prof. Dr. Istiningsih, Dr. Ali Sodiq, Prof. Dr. Sri Sumarni, and Dr. Jarot Wahyudi, met with Regent H. Harda Kiswaya, S.E. at the Sleman Regency Office. The meeting underscored a shared commitment: to build a stronger bridge between higher education and regional development.

“We’re not just growing in numbers, but in values, vision, and global relevance.”
— Prof. Noorhaidi Hasan, Rector

Reaching New Heights in Education

In his presentation, the Rector highlighted several key milestones. UIN Sunan Kalijaga now serves over 25,000 students, supported by 84 full professors out of 720 active faculty—a significant achievement reflecting the university’s academic strength. Notably, 73% of its study programs are nationally accredited as ‘Excellent’, with 30% receiving international accreditation.

The Rector emphasized that this growth is not only structural but strategic. "Our campus lies within Sleman. That is why it is crucial that we walk side by side with the local government, for mutual progress."

A Bold Step Forward: The Faculty of Medicine

One of the most significant discussions centered around the university’s plan to establish a Faculty of Medicine. Facilities are under development, teaching staff are being recruited, and partnerships are being built with teaching hospitals. Among them, Klaten Hospital is appointed as the main clinical training site, while RS PDHI and Dr. Sardjito Hospital will support practicum and research activities.

This endeavor represents more than institutional growth—it reflects UIN Sunan Kalijaga’s deepening commitment to national health, scientific advancement, and community service.

Campus II and the Future of STEM

Looking ahead, the university is also developing Campus II, which will focus on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) to address urgent national challenges—such as energy, food security, environmental sustainability, and human capital development. Yet, even with this forward-looking agenda, the university remains firmly grounded in its Islamic identity by continuing to strengthen its graduate programs in religious studies.

“UIN Sunan Kalijaga Is a Treasure of Sleman”

The Regent of Sleman responded with enthusiastic support. “The growth of UIN Sunan Kalijaga is not only something we admire—it brings real impact to Sleman’s people, economy, and culture. From food stalls to transport to education access, the presence of the university lifts us all.”

The Regent expressed readiness to help with licensing processes and encouraged the university to reach out directly when facing bureaucratic hurdles. “Don’t worry about unnecessary costs,” he added. “If there are challenges, we’ll solve them together.”

Access and Equity at the Core

The Regent also hoped to see more students from Sleman enrolled at UIN Sunan Kalijaga, particularly those from underprivileged backgrounds. In response, Dr. Abdur Rozaki, Vice Rector for Student Affairs and Partnerships, explained that the university has several scholarship and tuition support schemes in place. He welcomed the opportunity to expand these initiatives through formal cooperation with the local government.

A Shared Commitment for a Better Future

As the meeting concluded with smiles and a group photo, it became clear that what had just taken place was more than institutional alignment—it was the forging of a vision. A vision of inclusive, innovative, and locally rooted higher education that answers not just to policy or ranking, but to people.

In collaboration, UIN Sunan Kalijaga and the Government of Sleman are setting an example: that when universities and local authorities join hands, the result can be transformative—not just for a region, but for the nation.

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