Honoring Prof. Noorhaidi: A New Chapter for UIII and UIN Sunan Kalijaga

In a notable development for academic collaboration, Prof. Noorhaidi Hasan of Universitas Islam Internasional Indonesia (UIIII) has begun his new role as Rector of UIN Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta. During the recent 2024 UIII Commencement Ceremony at the UIII Rectorate Building (08/29/2024), Prof. Jamhari, the Rector, paid a heartfelt tribute to Prof. Noorhaidi, prompting a standing ovation from the audience.

On the same day, the Faculty of Islamic Studies, now led by Prof. Yanwar Pribadi, the acting dean, hosted a farewell event to honor its former Dean, Prof. Noorhaidi, and celebrate the graduating class. Prof. Noorhaidi’s pivotal role in establishing a successful partnership with the University of Edinburgh, supported by the British Council’s £29,400 Going Global Partnership Grant, highlights his visionary leadership and steadfast dedication to UIII.

Under Prof. Noorhaidi’s stewardship, UIII has embarked on a groundbreaking journey to elevate its global presence through a dynamic dual degree program that integrates UIII’s MA in Islamic Studies with the University of Edinburgh’s MSc in the Globalized Muslim World and a number of departments at SOAS University of London. This innovative program offers students an exceptional opportunity to gain insights from both Indonesian and British perspectives, showcasing the forward-thinking approach that Prof. Noorhaidi has championed.

The initiative, initially launched by Prof. Jamhari, now Rector of UIII, reflects a deep-seated commitment to enhancing UIII’s academic stature on the world stage. Prof. Noorhaidi’s leadership has been instrumental in advancing this partnership, ensuring its continuation and expansion. His dedication to fostering international academic excellence has set a high bar for UIII’s global engagements.

The dual degree program is more than a collaboration; it represents a broader vision for Islamic studies, embracing a ‘decentered’ approach to understand contemporary Muslim realities beyond traditional contexts. The program’s key activities, including joint teaching programs, visiting scholar exchanges, and a joint international conference on 'Decentering Islamic Studies,' reflect Prof. Noorhaidi’s ambition to broaden the scope of academic inquiry and international cooperation.

The 2023 visit by UIII’s delegation to the UK highlighted Prof. Noorhaidi’s leadership and vision. Alongside Prof.  Yanwar Pribadi, the acting Dean of UIII’s Faculty of Islamic Studies, and Dr. Zezen Zaenal Mutaqin, Head of the MA Program, Prof. Noorhaidi participated in the Annual Conference of The British Association for Islamic Studies (BRAIS). Held at The Aga Khan University's Institute for the Study of Muslim Civilisations, the conference provided a platform for UIII’s faculty to present their groundbreaking research and engage in meaningful academic dialogues.

At BRAIS, Prof. Noorhaidi’s focus on decentralizing Islamic studies was a highlight, demonstrating UIII’s commitment to addressing global Islamic issues. Dr. Mutaqin and Prof.Pribadi’s contributions on Indonesian Muslims and their experiences in the West further emphasized UIII’s role in international academic conversations.

The delegation’s visit to the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS) University of London, also underscored the strong academic ties being forged. Discussions with SOAS officials, including Prof. Adam Habib, Prof. Ayman Shihadeh, and Dr. Ben Murtagh, centered on research collaborations and dual degree programs, reinforcing UIII’s position as a leader in global academic partnerships.

As Prof. Noorhaidi takes on his new role as Rector of UIN Sunan Kalijaga, his legacy at UIII is marked by a commitment to global academic excellence and innovation. His leadership has laid a solid foundation for UIII’s continued growth and international presence, setting a promising path for the future.

This transition to UIN Sunan Kalijaga marks a new chapter for Prof. Noorhaidi, reflecting his enduring impact on UIII and his new role in shaping the future of Islamic studies. His contributions and vision have not only enhanced UIII’s global standing but also paved the way for a future rich with opportunities for growth and international collaboration. 

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