UIII's New Café Blends Global Flavors and Local Connections

November 04, 2024

Contributor: Dadi Darmadi | Editor: Supriyono

Depok, November 4, 2024 — At the heart of Universitas Islam Internasional Indonesia (UIII), in the JK Library, a new café named Global Grounds is stirring excitement and conversation. Today marked its soft opening, attended by UIII’s Rector Prof. Jamhari, former Rector of UIII Prof. Komaruddin Hidayat, Vice-Rector for Planning, Finance, and Business Development Prof. Amsal Bachtiar, Academic Senate Chairman Dr. Riefqi Muna, and other university officials, including Hatta Aulia, and M. Yazid. 

With an international menu and a mission to cultivate community, Global Grounds cafe is set to become a vibrant meeting point for students and scholars alike. 

Prof. Jamhari, in his remarks, described the café as a “bridge” for students and faculty to connect outside of formal classroom settings. “This café may be small, but it plays a big role,” he noted. “It creates a space where the campus community can come together, whether to discuss research ideas, relax, or simply share a cup of coffee.” 

Prof. Komaruddin Hidayat, reflecting on UIII’s evolution, emphasized the unique blend of academia and community at Global Grounds. “The café aligns with UIII’s vision of holistic education. We’re not just here to teach; we’re here to foster connections,” he remarked. For Prof. Komaruddin, Global Grounds is about bridging cultures and ideas in a casual, welcoming environment. 

From its cozy seating to its wide-ranging menu, the café is designed to be both study-friendly and socially inviting. “The space combines earthy tones, warm lighting, and global coffee blends that mirror UIII’s own international character, with perhaps the best coffee in town,” said Prof. Amsal with big smiles.  

According to Dr. Riefqi Muna, Global Grounds is more than a place to get coffee—it’s a catalyst for campus life. “A café is where ideas spark,” he said, “and where students can feel that they’re part of something bigger.” 

As students and faculty enjoyed the first tastes of coffee and pastries, the opening of Global Grounds symbolized UIII’s commitment to creating an inclusive and dynamic campus life. For UIII, this cafe is the latest step in a journey toward fostering intellectual exchange and a sense of community, one cup of coffee at a time.