The Faculty of Islamic Studies (FAI) at Universitas Muhammadiyah Sumatera Utara (UMSU), in collaboration with PT Pegadaian, organized a National Seminar on Financial Literacy titled “Smart Financial for the Future: Building Career and Financial Readiness for Indonesia’s Golden Generation.” The event also featured the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two institutions on Thursday (May 21) at the UMSU Auditorium, Muchtar Basri Street No. 3, Medan.
The seminar was officially opened by UMSU Rector Prof. Dr. Akrim, M.Pd., represented by Vice Rector I, Prof. Dr. Muhammad Arifin, M.Hum. In his remarks, he emphasized that financial literacy has become a fundamental life skill that young people must master, particularly amid today’s economic challenges and the growing influence of social media.
“Financial literacy is no longer optional—it is a fundamental aspect of personal and family life that everyone needs to understand,” he said.
He also encouraged students to avoid excessive consumerism and the growing trend of irresponsible digital lending.
Meanwhile, Faozan Wahyu Praptono, Deputy Business Area Manager for PT Pegadaian Medan Area 1, highlighted the importance of financial management skills in an era shaped by technological advancement and digital lifestyles.
“The ability to manage personal finances is no longer an additional competency—it has become an essential life skill,” he said.
According to him, university students, as members of Indonesia’s future golden generation, should strive to excel not only academically but also in making wise financial decisions.
“Future success is determined not only by how much income we earn, but by how wisely we manage our finances and prepare for the future from an early stage,” he explained.
Through this seminar, PT Pegadaian aimed to equip students with practical knowledge on saving habits, safe investment strategies, and the productive use of financial services.
Earlier, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Rizka Harfiani, M.Psi., Vice Dean I of the Faculty of Islamic Studies, explained that the seminar formed part of the faculty’s efforts to strengthen students’ understanding of long-term financial planning.
“Financial literacy is an essential foundation for the future, enabling young people to make intelligent financial decisions and plan wisely,” she said in her welcoming remarks.
She also highlighted FAI UMSU’s ongoing commitment to academic excellence through various international initiatives, including international seminars, visiting lecturer programs, certified internships, and international community service (KKN) programs in Malaysia, Thailand, and Saudi Arabia.
The event concluded with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between UMSU and PT Pegadaian, marking the beginning of a stronger collaboration to enhance financial education and literacy among university students.
Also attending the event were Dr. Muhammad Ruslan, M.Pd., Vice Dean III of the Faculty of Islamic Studies; Dahnia Aini, Branch Manager of Pegadaian CP Medan Karya; Rini Nuri Azis, Branch Manager of Pegadaian CPS; heads of academic programs, faculty members of the Faculty of Islamic Studies, and students participating in the seminar.
