A touching and meaningful atmosphere enveloped the second day of the Universitas Muhammadiyah Sumatera Utara (UMSU) Graduation Ceremony for the First Period of 2025, held at Selecta Convention Hall Medan on Wednesday (July 9).
More than just a formal academic event, the ceremony struck an emotional and spiritual chord with attendees — including the Secretary of Kopertais Region IX Sumatra, Prof. Dr. Abdullah Jamil, MA — who admitted he was moved to tears while witnessing the proceedings.
“I’ve attended many university graduations, but UMSU’s is truly different. I was brought to tears by how emotionally stirring the event was. It delivered not just academic messages, but also moral values and heartfelt appreciation to those who contributed to the graduates’ success. This was far more than a typical academic ceremony,” he said with a trembling voice during his speech.
Prof. Abdullah praised UMSU’s concept and execution, saying it could serve as a model for other universities, especially within the Islamic Private Higher Education (PTKIS) system.
“UMSU has succeeded in designing a graduation that’s not only academically formal but also deeply touching and inspirational. I believe other universities can learn from UMSU,” he added.
He went on to express his pride in UMSU’s impressive achievements across multiple areas — from infrastructure development and quality learning processes to international accreditation, research, and community service.
Prof. Abdullah also gave special recognition to UMSU’s Faculty of Islamic Studies (FAI), which he said had reached accomplishments not yet seen among other Islamic faculties in Kopertais Region IX.
“FAI UMSU has set an outstanding example that other faculties in the region can follow. We at Kopertais IX deeply appreciate this,” he noted.
To close his remarks, Prof. Abdullah extended his congratulations to UMSU Rector Prof. Dr. Agussani and his leadership team, the graduates, and the parents who entrusted their children’s education to UMSU.
“Kopertais IX extends its heartfelt congratulations to UMSU and all its graduates. May the knowledge you’ve gained serve as a path toward prosperity for the people, the nation, and the country,” he concluded with hope.
Day Two: A Milestone Toward the Integrated Campus Dream
UMSU continued the graduation ceremony on its second day, Wednesday (July 9), conferring degrees upon 982 graduates from the Faculty of Islamic Studies (FAI), Faculty of Economics and Business (FEB), Faculty of Law, Faculty of Agriculture (Faperta), and the Faculty of Computer Science and Information Technology (FIKTI). On the first day, 955 graduates across undergraduate, master’s, doctoral, and professional programs were honored — a ceremony attended by Indonesia’s Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, Prof. Dr. Abdul Mu’ti, M.Ed.
Before officially conferring degrees, UMSU Rector Prof. Dr. Agussani, MAP delivered a spirited speech, emphasizing that the event marked not only an academic milestone but also a moment of gratitude for the university’s many achievements.
Amid fierce competition among higher education institutions, UMSU continues to establish itself as a leading university, excelling in academics, creativity, and international collaboration.
“UMSU is attracting more and more international students. We now have 150 students from various countries choosing UMSU for their studies. This reflects global trust in our institution’s quality,” the rector stated enthusiastically.
In addition, UMSU students have achieved outstanding results in the Student Creativity Program (PKM), with 20 proposals winning top recognition at the LLDikti Region I level — the highest number among universities in the region.
“Our students’ success is matched by the achievements of our faculty. This year, UMSU lecturers have secured the highest number of research grants, surpassing both public and private universities,” he continued.
UMSU has also been entrusted by various government ministries for development and empowerment programs. Notably, through the Faculty of Engineering, UMSU is carrying out school revitalization and renovation projects across North Sumatra to improve primary and secondary education. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Religious Affairs has chosen FAI UMSU to host the Teacher Professional Education (PPG) program for 1,500 educators — a testament to its excellence and capability.
Adding to this pride, the rector shared that a Faculty of Law alumnus recently received national recognition from the President of Indonesia for achieving the second-highest score among new judges.
In closing, Prof. Agussani encouraged graduates to apply their knowledge in the workforce and within their communities while always honoring UMSU and the Muhammadiyah organization.
“If you choose to pursue a master’s degree at UMSU, God willing, two years from now you’ll graduate in our new auditorium and sports hall, which is currently under construction and will hold up to 7,000 people. I dream that, with Allah’s blessing, by July 2027 we can hold our graduation ceremony in UMSU’s grand new Integrated Campus in Deli Serdang,” he declared, met with applause.
The rector concluded by asking for prayers from the parents who entrusted their children to UMSU so that this vision may come true. “This is part of our shared pride and collective dream, including that of the Muhammadiyah organization,” he said with hope.
During the ceremony, Rector Prof. Agussani also presented awards to outstanding students. One of them, Khairul Amru Hasibuan from FAI, was invited to deliver a speech on behalf of the graduates, sharing his reflections and experiences during his time at UMSU.
The ceremony also featured a powerful monologue performance by FISIP student Mey Chung, conveying a moral message and expressing gratitude to those who helped the graduates succeed. Previously, during the Yudisium, the rector awarded a full scholarship to the monologue performer in recognition of her talent.
The graduation event was further enlivened by Band UMSU, a Gen-Z music group that has earned recognition at provincial, national, and even international levels.
Distinguished guests in attendance included the Director of Ma’had Abu Ubaidah, Chairman of UMSU’s Board of Trustees Dr. Bahril Datuk, MM, representatives from the Muhammadiyah Regional Leadership of North Sumatra including Mario Kasduri and members of Aisyiyah.
