Behind the trimmed gardens, spotless hallways, and the calm security of UIN Sunan Kalijaga lies the quiet dedication of hands that often go unnoticed. They are not lecturers nor officials. They are janitors, gardeners, security guards—outsourced and contract workers whose presence quietly sustains campus life.

This Ramadan, they were embraced not just in spirit, but with a tangible gesture of gratitude. Through its Zakat Management Unit (UPZ), UIN Sunan Kalijaga distributed 276 Ramadan gift packages to 224 outsourced workers and 52 BLU contract staff. The gesture, simple yet profound, echoed the university’s commitment to compassion and inclusion.

The handover, held on March 6–7, 2025, was led directly by UPZ Advisor Prof. Dr. Maksudin along with other UPZ board members. "This is not just about giving,” he said, “It’s about nurturing the values that define us as a caring and humane academic community.”

For Siti Marzunah, one of the recipients, the gift was far more than just aid.

“It feels like we’re seen,” she whispered. “We work with our hearts, and being appreciated like this—it lifts our spirit.”

Prof. Dr. Aziz Muslim, Chairman of UPZ, emphasized that this program aligns with the university’s broader mission to support the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

“We want to cultivate a culture of giving on campus—not occasionally, but as part of who we are.”

At UIN Sunan Kalijaga, where knowledge is pursued with purpose, kindness becomes the language that connects all.