Another landmark step in the journey of Islamic higher education in Indonesia has been made by UIN Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta. After more than seven decades of developing a scholarly tradition that integrates knowledge and Islamic values, the campus has officially launched its Medical Study Program and Professional Doctor Program, inaugurated in person by the Minister of Religious Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia on Thursday, June 4, 2026, at the grounds of the Faculty of Medicine Building, UIN Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta.
The inauguration marked a historic moment for UIN Sunan Kalijaga while signaling a new chapter in the contribution of Islamic religious higher education institutions to the development of outstanding, professional, and principled human resources in the health sector.
In his remarks, the Rector of UIN Sunan Kalijaga, Prof. Noorhaidi Hasan, emphasized that the establishment of the Medical Study Program and Professional Doctor Program is not merely the addition of an academic program, but rather a manifestation of the university's grand vision to develop knowledge that integrates science, ethics, spirituality, human values, and Islamic teachings.
“Indonesia needs doctors who are not only academically and professionally excellent, but who also possess social sensitivity, moral integrity, and the ability to understand the spiritual and cultural dimensions of the communities they serve,” he said.
According to the Rector, medical education at UIN Sunan Kalijaga is built upon the integration-interconnection paradigm that has long been the hallmark of the university. Through this approach, UIN Sunan Kalijaga is committed to producing doctors who master evidence-based modern medicine while also embodying empathy, ethics, and a dedication to serving humanity.
He also expressed his appreciation to the Ministry of Religious Affairs, the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology, teaching hospitals, professional organizations, regional governments, and various partners who have supported the lengthy process of establishing the program.
Meanwhile, the Minister of Religious Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia, Prof. Nasaruddin Umar, in his address described the establishment of the Faculty of Medicine and Medical Study Program as a strategic step that further solidifies UIN Sunan Kalijaga's position as a complete Islamic university.
“A university is an ocean capable of encompassing the universality of Islamic teachings. The presence of the Faculty of Medicine makes UIN Sunan Kalijaga increasingly complete as a university capable of meeting the needs of society,” he said.
The Minister of Religious Affairs also stressed the importance of integrating religious knowledge and science, in the tradition of scholarship that flourished during the golden age of Islam. He recalled that great figures such as Ibn Rushd, Al-Razi, Jabir ibn Hayyan, and Al-Khwarizmi were examples of Muslim scholars who were able to master various disciplines in an integrated manner.
He therefore expressed his hope that UIN Sunan Kalijaga could become a “New Baitul Hikmah”, a center for the development of knowledge that brings together Islamic studies, science, technology, health, and various other fields within one strong academic ecosystem.
According to the Minister, doctors who graduate from Islamic higher education institutions carry a distinct advantage, as they are equipped not only with medical competencies but also with the ability to build spiritual communication and meaningful human relationships with their patients.
“Human relations are of vital importance in healthcare. A doctor who understands religious values and is capable of expressing genuine empathy will have a deeper connection with the community,” he remarked.
Prof. Nasaruddin Umar further expressed his optimism that Indonesia, and Yogyakarta in particular, holds tremendous potential to become a future center for the development of science, technology, and modern Islamic civilization.
With the inauguration of the Medical Study Program and Professional Doctor Program, UIN Sunan Kalijaga reaffirms its commitment to continuing to expand its contributions in the fields of education, research, and community service. The presence of this program is hoped to not only address the national demand for healthcare professionals, but also to produce future doctors who are competent, principled, and oriented toward the welfare of the people.
The event was concluded with the official inauguration of the UIN Sunan Kalijaga Medical Study Program and Professional Doctor Program by the Minister of Religious Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia, a symbol of the beginning of a new chapter in the campus's dedication to the nation's health development and humanity. (humassk)