On Monday, September 23, 2024, Students of the UGM Master of Middle Eastern Cultural Studies Program have carried out Community Service at the Sunan Pandanaran Yogyakarta Islamic Boarding School. The event was attended by the principal of Sunan Pandanaran Islamic Boarding School Yogyakarta, teacher representatives, and class XII students. The principal of Sunan Pandanaran Islamic Boarding School, Dr. KH Mu’tashim Billah, S.Q., M.Pd.I. said that he was very happy to host the community service from the Master of Middle Eastern Cultural Studies Program. This community service activity reflects the spirit of knowledge, togetherness, and care. The materials presented by KBTT students are expected to provide new insights for santri and santriwati in schools related to the Middle East, both from social, cultural, and political aspects.
The event continued with the presentation of material delivered by three students, namely Yusuf Idrus Malik, Vania Aina Sadikin, and Lutfi Nurfadli. The material presented by KBTT students included the countries of Egypt, Jordan, and the features of the Middle East. In the presentation of the three students, it was concluded that demographic diversity in the Middle East is one of the main characteristics of this region, covering aspects of socio-culture, religion, and political government.The Middle East is home to various tribes, languages, and traditions. From Arabs, Kurds, Persians, Turks, to Berbers, each ethnic group has its own unique culture and identity. These cultures are reflected in art, music, food, and customs. As for religion, the Middle East is very diverse, although the region is known as the birthplace of three major religions: Islam, Christianity, and Judaism. Islam, with its various sects such as Sunni and Shia, dominates social and political life in many countries. However, Christian, Yazidi, Druze, and Bahá’í communities also have a long history and contribute to cultural diversity.
Santri and santriwati of the Sunan Pandanaran Islamic boarding school were enthusiastic about the material as evidenced by the active forum discussion and souvenir distribution. At the end of the event, the principal of the Sunan Pandanaran Islamic Boarding School expressed his gratitude to PKM UGM students and motivated all students to study hard and practice the knowledge gained to the community. The event was closed by giving souvenirs from UGM to Sunan Pandanaran Islamic Boarding School and continued with a group photo session.
