Deputy Minister of Basic and Secondary Education: Pesantren Graduation is a Momentum to Create a Rabbani Generation
The Deputy Minister of Basic and Secondary Education, Fajar Riza Ul Haq, attended the graduation ceremony, known as Takrimun Najihin, for final-year students at Pesantren Muhammadiyah Al-Furqon, Singaparna, Tasikmalaya, on Saturday (7/6/2026). During the event, he asserted that graduation is not merely a ceremonial conclusion but a sacred moment to honour knowledge and affirm the emergence of a ‘Rabbani’ generation.
According to Fajar, the term Takrimun Najihin carries a profound meaning that transcends academic celebration. He views it as a form of respect for the synergy between teachers, parents, and the arduous struggles of students throughout their education. “Over the past six years, these students have been forged through a significant process. Takrimun Najihin is a form of mutual honouring. Islamic education teaches us to respect knowledge, teachers, parents, and the struggle itself,” Fajar stated before the graduates.
In his sermon, Fajar urged the graduates of Al-Furqon to grow into a ‘Rabbani Generation’. Referring to Surah Ali Imran, verse 79, he explained the two main pillars graduates must possess. He also distinguished the concept of ‘rabbani’ from ‘rahbaniyyah’, emphasising that Islam does not require followers to withdraw from the world, but rather to be actively present amidst social complexities, providing solutions based on ethics and wisdom.
Addressing technological advancements, the Deputy Minister warned students not to get caught in a technical arms race with Artificial Intelligence (AI). He noted that human aspects and ethics are irreplaceable by machines. “If humans only chase the capabilities of AI, we will struggle to keep up. Our task is to use AI ethically and responsibly for the benefit of humanity,” he asserted.
He added that future success is not determined by academic grades alone. Drawing from his 13 years of experience in Islamic boarding schools, Fajar believes that resilience, problem-solving abilities, and the strong character forged in pesantren are the primary assets for becoming leaders in various fields. He concluded by encouraging graduates to uphold the reputation of their alma mater and Muhammadiyah, hoping they will serve as a light providing warmth and utility to the nation.