UIN Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta, a prestigious Islamic university in Indonesia, has a rich history and a steadfast commitment to integrating Islamic studies with modern science and education. This journey, which began in the early 1950s, showcases the university’s evolution and dedication to academic excellence and societal development.
The foundational period of UIN Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta began with the nationalization of the Faculty of Religion at the Indonesian Islamic University (UII). This transition was formalized by Presidential Regulation Number 34 of 1950, dated August 14, 1950, and the official inauguration of Perguruan Tinggi Agama Islam Negeri (PTAIN) on September 26, 1951. During this period, PTAIN was under the leadership of KHR Moh Adnan (1951-1959) and Prof. Dr. H. Mukhtar Yahya (1959-1960).
The significant event of this era was the merger of PTAIN, established under Presidential Regulation Number 34 of 1950, with ADIA, founded based on the Decree of the Minister of Religion Number 1 of 1957. This merger was facilitated by Presidential Regulation Number 11 of 1960, dated May 9, 1960, leading to the formation of the State Islamic Institute (IAIN) named Al-Jami’ah al-Islamiyah al-Hukumiyah.
1960 – 1972: The Laying of the Foundation
The period from 1960 to 1972 marked the official establishment of IAIN on August 24, 1960. This era saw the separation of IAIN into two centers: one in Yogyakarta and another in Jakarta, as per the Decree of the Minister of Religion Number 49 of 1963, dated February 25, 1963. The Yogyakarta branch was subsequently named IAIN Sunan Kalijaga, following the Decree of the Minister of Religion Number 26 of 1965, dated July 1, 1965.
During this time, significant infrastructure developments took place, including the relocation from the old campus on Jalan Simanjuntak (now the building of MAN 1 Yogyakarta) to a more expansive campus on Jalan Marsda Adisucipto. This new campus saw the construction of several faculty buildings and a central mosque, which still stands strong today.
Academically, the system was quite liberal, allowing students to take exams when they felt prepared. The curriculum was heavily influenced by Middle Eastern models, particularly from Al-Azhar University in Egypt. Prof. R.H.A. Soenaryo, S.H., led IAIN Sunan Kalijaga during this foundational period.
1972 – 1996: The Establishment of Academic Foundations
From 1972 to 1996, IAIN Sunan Kalijaga was led by a succession of notable figures: Colonel Drs. H. Bakri Syahid (1972-1976), Prof. H. Zaini Dahlan, MA (1976-1980 and 1980-1983), Prof. Dr. H.A. Mu’in Umar (1983-1992), and Prof. Dr. Simuh (1992-1996). This era was characterized by the continued development of physical infrastructure, including the construction of the Faculty of Da’wah building, the Library, the Graduate Program building, and the Rectorate.
The educational system evolved from a liberal model to a more structured one, introducing a “semi-semester system” and eventually a “pure semester credit system.” The curriculum underwent significant adjustments to align with the national needs of Indonesia, leading to an increase in the number of faculties to five: Faculty of Adab (Humanities), Da’wah, Sharia, Tarbiyah (Education), and Ushuluddin (Theology). The Graduate Program was officially launched in the academic year 1983/1984, reinforcing IAIN Sunan Kalijaga’s role as a leading academic institution.
Vision and Mission
UIN Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta envisions itself as a leading and distinguished institution in integrating and advancing Islamic and scientific knowledge for the betterment of civilization.
Vision: “Excellence and prominence in the integration and development of Islamic and scientific knowledge for civilization.”
Mission:
- Integrate and develop Islamic studies, science, and Indonesian culture in education and teaching.
- Promote a culture of ijtihad (independent reasoning) in multidisciplinary research that benefits academic and societal interests.
- Enhance the institution’s role in addressing national issues based on Islamic and scientific perspectives to create a civil society.
- Build trust and develop collaborations with various stakeholders to improve the quality of the implementation of the university’s three core missions (Tridharma Perguruan Tinggi).
Faculties at UIN Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta
UIN Sunan Kalijaga offers a diverse range of academic programs across several faculties:
- Faculty of Adab and Cultural Sciences
- Faculty of Da’wah and Communication
- Faculty of Tarbiyah and Education
- Faculty of Sharia and Law
- Faculty of Ushuluddin and Islamic Thought
- Faculty of Science and Technology
- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities
- Faculty of Islamic Economics and Business
- Graduate Program
UIN Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta’s journey from its early days as PTAIN to its current status as a premier Islamic university highlights its commitment to blending Islamic values with modern education. With a vision rooted in excellence and a mission focused on holistic development, UIN Sunan Kalijaga continues to contribute significantly to the intellectual and moral development of its students, shaping future leaders who are well-equipped to address the challenges of a rapidly changing world.
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