Exploring the Future of Islamic Education: International Office of UIN Siber Syekh Nurjati Cirebon Joins Public Lecture in Kuningan
Kuningan, May 26, 2025 — The International Office of UIN Siber Syekh Nurjati Cirebon (UINSSC) took part in a public lecture (kuliah umum) held on May 26, 2025, in Mandirancan, Kuningan. The event, themed “Prospek Masa Depan Pesantren & Madrasah: Tantangan dan Respon Strategis” featured distinguished speakers Prof. Greg Barton, Rector of Deakin University – Lancaster University Indonesia, and Ms. Citta Sellepan, Adviser to the Rector. The lecture brought together santriwan and santriwati of Pembangunan Islamic Boarding School, as well as invited guests from various universities.
Prof. Greg Barton opened his session by highlighting the uniqueness of Indonesia’s madrasah and pesantren system. “There are madrasahs everywhere, but the Indonesian madrasah system is the most comprehensive I’ve seen,” he said, emphasizing how Indonesia offers a model that no other country has fully replicated. He also reminded participants that pesantren must continue to evolve and innovate to remain relevant. “If there is no renewal, pesantren may be left behind,” he cautioned.
The Professor also emphasized the importance of embracing challenges, particularly in the field of politics, social change, and shifting cultural values. He reflected on the wisdom of mahfudzot, saying, “Tuntutlah Ilmu Sampai ke Negeri China” should not be taken purely geographically — it also refers to exploring diverse fields and academic disciplines. According to him, education should be seen not just as a personal pursuit but a social obligation, one that contributes to the nation and humanity at large.
Ms. Citta Sellepan offered an inspiring perspective on how continuous learning strengthens faith. Quoting the Prophet Muhammad SAW., she said, “Keep learning until the grave,” urging the audience to maintain a lifelong thirst for knowledge. She reminded students that while exploring the world and advancing in education brings many challenges, it also opens up deeper understandings of the divine. “The more we learn, the more we find knowledge that strengthens our faith in God,” she added.
Ms. Sellepan also introduced the Deakin University–Lancaster University Indonesia (DLI) initiative — an innovative collaboration between Australia’s Deakin University and the United Kingdom’s Lancaster University. This joint international campus, located in Bandung, is the first of its kind and was chosen after careful assessment of suitable countries, with Indonesia standing out as the most promising. “Other countries didn’t meet the requirements, but Indonesia did. It was destined,” she shared.
This pioneering collaboration offers undergraduate programs aligned with the vision of Indonesia Emas 2045 and enables graduates to receive two degrees—one from Deakin and one from Lancaster. Despite differences in study duration and credit systems, both degrees are equivalent to a full bachelor's degree. The university is also preparing to launch postgraduate programs soon, expanding opportunities for Indonesian students to gain world-class education domestically.
Beyond academic programs, DLI also prioritizes research and broader educational collaborations. “It’s not just about getting a degree,” Ms. Sellepan said, “but about contributing to a wider academic ecosystem that includes research and global partnerships.” This vision aligns with UINSSC’s commitment to international collaboration and its mission to empower students with global insights while maintaining strong local values.
The International Office of UINSSC sees this event as a valuable opportunity to strengthen international partnerships and connect students with global academic networks. Through such initiatives, UINSSC continues to bridge local Islamic education with global academic advancements, ensuring that its students are well-equipped for the challenges of the future.
Author: Cyrila Zahra Tsania