Prof. Jamhari Makruf, Rector of Universitas Islam Internasional Indonesia (UIII), has recently published an article urging a collective effort to transform Islamic education in Indonesia. He argues that Islamic education must evolve beyond a traditional framework and become a dynamic force that addresses contemporary challenges while preserving its moral and spiritual foundations.

The article was published in Disway.id, an Indonesian online news and opinion platform founded by Dahlan Iskan, a prominent Indonesian businessman, journalist, and former Minister of State-Owned Enterprises.

In his writing, Prof. Jamhari reflects on the historical journey of Islamic education in Indonesia—from the traditional pesantren and madrasah to modern Islamic universities that engage with science, technology, and global discourse. He highlights that this evolution reflects the adaptability of Islamic institutions, but also underscores the urgent need for renewed vision and collaboration to ensure their continued relevance.

Prof. Jamhari emphasizes that the true essence of Islamic education lies in integrating intellectual excellence with ethical and social responsibility. For him, education should not only produce graduates with academic achievements but also nurture individuals who are capable of contributing to justice, sustainability, and inclusivity in society. He calls for the spirit of wasathiyyah (moderation) and openness to guide this transformation, allowing Islamic education to thrive amid rapid global change.

To read the full article, please visit: Transformation of Islamic Education in Indonesia