Minister Of Religion Nasaruddin Umar: Islamic Boarding Schools Move To Centers For Innovation And The People's Economy

Photo: Doc. Antara

Minister of Religion Nasaruddin Umar believes that the presence of the Directorate General of Islamic Boarding Schools will encourage the oldest educational institution in Indonesia to transform into a center of innovation, economic empowerment, and civilization.

"This is the new face of the Indonesian Islamic boarding school. Not only the center of knowledge and da'wah, but also the center of innovation and economic empowerment of the community," said the Minister of Religion in his statement in Jakarta, quoted by Antara, Saturday, October 25.

The Minister of Religion's statement was delivered on the peak night of the commemoration of Santri Day which was held at Taman Mini Indonesia Indah (TMII) Jakarta.

The Ministry of Religion noted that there are 42,369 Islamic boarding schools spread throughout the archipelago, with millions of students studying until 2025. This condition shows that pesantren has become a large ecosystem in development.

"This is not just a number, but proof of how pesantren has become a major ecosystem for the development of Indonesian human beings completely," said the Minister of Religion.

The Grand Imam of the Istiqlal Mosque thanked President Prabowo for his attention and alignment with the world of pesantren.

"Under his leadership, various programs that touch the interests of pesantren continue to get reinforcement, including the approval of the formation of the Directorate General of Islamic Boarding Schools at the Ministry of Religion," he said.

The Minister of Religion emphasized that the establishment of the Directorate General of Islamic Boarding Schools is a big mandate. This mandate is expected to further strengthen governance and government services to pesantren throughout Indonesia.

"We are committed, with the formation of the Directorate General of Islamic Boarding Schools, state services for pesantren will be faster, more precise, and have an impact," he said.

The Minister of Religion also explained the role of the Ministry of Religion in supporting the welfare of students through social programs from the Government.

The Free Health Check Program (CKG) and Free Nutrition Food (MBG) have also been benefited by millions of students.

"These programs show how the state is present to ensure students grow healthy, strong, and enthusiastic in demanding knowledge and contributing to the nation," said the Minister of Religion.