Islamic institute to start doctorate class

MEDAN, North Sumatra: A new post-graduate doctorate in Islamic studies was officially inaugurated by Minister of Religious Affairs Said Agil Husin Al Munawar in North Sumatra on Tuesday.

The North Sumatra State Islamic Institute (IAIN) is the fifth institute of its kind in the country to run a post-graduate program on Islamic studies.

"We expect the program will help us improve the quality of scholars of Islamic studies," Said said.

"Clerics also need to broaden their knowledge on Islam and respond quickly to the free-flow of information," he said. -- Antara