International Office of UIN Siber Syekh Nurjati Cirebon Holds Pre-Interview for SN-GES 2025 Applicant from Senegal
Cirebon, June 4, 2025 – The International Office of UIN Siber Syekh Nurjati Cirebon (UINSSC) conducted a pre-interview with Babou Seck, an applicant for the SN-GES 2025 scholarship program. The session was led by Dr. Lala Bumela Sudimantara, Ph.D., Director of the International Office, accompanied by Khaled, a 2024 SN-GES applicant from Sudan, and supported by the Global Engagement Team. Held on the 5th floor of the Cyber Building, this pre-interview aimed to gain a deeper understanding of the applicant’s background, motivations, and readiness to study at UINSSC.
Lala Bumela Sudimantara, Ph.D. explained that the pre-interview serves as an initial step to help international applicants become more familiar with the academic and cultural environment of UINSSC. “This session helps us understand who they are beyond documents and scores. It’s also a warm-up before their official interview with department heads and deans next week,” He said. The discussion covered personal history, academic goals, and the applicant’s previous experience with religious and educational life.
Babou Seck, originally named Abu Bakar, shared the story behind his current name. Due to the loss of his birth documents, his father renamed him Babou Bakar, which eventually became Babou Seck. Now 21 years old, Babou has spent most of his life in Islamic boarding schools since the age of seven. Although unsure of the exact number of his siblings, he mentioned having approximately five sisters from his mother and seven siblings from his father’s side.
During the session, Babou also opened up about his journey memorizing the Qur’an. He began at the age of ten, encouraged by his parents, and completed the entire Qur’an in four years through a disciplined method of repetition. “I read and repeat each verse many times until I fully remember it, then I move on to the next one,” he explained. This dedication reflects a strong foundation in religious education, which aligns with the values promoted by UINSSC.
When asked about his future academic interests and reasons for choosing UINSSC, Babou expressed his admiration for the university’s integration of Islamic values and modern academic disciplines. He is particularly drawn to the supportive environment and the opportunity to study in an institution that respects his background and aspirations. Babou also confirmed that his father would be signing the required parental permission form for his study in Indonesia.
Lala Bumela Sudimantara, Ph.D. reminded Babou to be prepared for the next stage of the selection process, which will include an interview with faculty leaders. “There may even be a short Qur’an recitation during the next interview,” he advised, helping Babou anticipate the expectations. This gesture emphasizes UINSSC’s commitment to ensuring that scholarship recipients are not only academically capable but also spiritually grounded.
The International Office continues to play a pivotal role in welcoming and guiding international applicants through each step of the scholarship process. With the support of experienced team members and fellow SN-GES applicants like Khaled, the pre-interview created a warm and encouraging atmosphere for Babou. Through this initiative, UINSSC reinforces its position as a global campus that nurtures diversity, faith, and academic excellence.
Author: Cyrila Zahra Tsania