Minister of Basic and Secondary Education Urges Graduates to Become Intellectuals Offering Solutions
Jakarta — Indonesia’s Minister of Basic and Secondary Education (Mendikdasmen), Prof Dr Abdul Mu’ti, M.Ed, delivered an inspirational message to all graduates of Muhammadiyah University of Jakarta (UMJ) at the university’s graduation ceremony.
He called upon graduates to become a generation of intellectuals who make genuine contributions to the nation and state. He conveyed this message at the Inaugural Academic Senate Meeting of Muhammadiyah University of Jakarta’s first graduation ceremony of 2026, second batch, held on Saturday, 23 May 2026 at the KH. Azhar Basyir Auditorium in the Cendekia Building at UMJ.
In his remarks, Mu’ti invited all attendees to express gratitude for the successful completion of UMJ’s first graduation ceremony of 2026, second batch. “On this occasion, personally and on behalf of the Central Leadership of Muhammadiyah, as well as representing the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education and the Daily Board of Trustees of Muhammadiyah University of Jakarta, I extend my congratulations to the Rector and all leadership of Muhammadiyah University of Jakarta,” said the Chairman of UMJ’s Daily Board of Trustees and Secretary General of the Central Executive Board of Muhammadiyah.
He also expressed appreciation to all graduates who successfully completed their education at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels. According to him, graduation is not merely an academic ceremony, but rather the starting point of a new phase in life.
“Graduation is not merely a ceremony, but rather an important momentum and the beginning for you to embark on a new journey in life and professional career,” he added.
Mu’ti emphasised that graduates bear a great responsibility because they have acquired knowledge and opportunities better than many others. As Minister of Basic and Secondary Education, he highlighted the importance of intellectuals in addressing various national challenges.
Citing a message frequently delivered by President Prabowo Subianto, Mu’ti stated that academics and scientists must be present within society to provide tangible solutions for national development.
“We cannot deny that there are still many problems in this country. However, these problems can be solved if intellectuals are present and take on roles through ideas, innovation, and concrete work,” he said.
He also conveyed a moral message to graduates to avoid merely blaming circumstances. “If it is dark around you, do not only blame the darkness and lament it. If it is dark around you, light a fire. And that is truly the role that intellectuals must undertake,” he urged.
Concluding his remarks, Mu’ti shared his experience visiting various regions across Indonesia and even abroad, where he met UMJ alumni who demonstrated quality as intellectuals and dedicated professionals serving the nation and state. He therefore urged all alumni to always maintain the good name of their alma mater wherever they may be.
“I have had the opportunity to travel to various regions in Indonesia, and even to several countries, where I have met alumni of Muhammadiyah University of Jakarta. They are not only intellectuals who excel in knowledge, but also professionals with high dedication to the nation and state,” he concluded.