Unand and Dompet Dhuafa forge partnership in education and research

Padang (ANTARA) - Universitas Andalas (Unand), West Sumatra, has forged a partnership with the philanthropic and humanitarian organisation Dompet Dhuafa to bolster education and research aspects based on community needs. “The focus of this collaboration encompasses education, research, and community service based on real field requirements,” said Chairman of the Dompet Dhuafa Board Ahmad Juwaini in Padang on Thursday. He stated that the partnership between the two institutions is directed towards integrating academic strengths and philanthropic movements to deliver programmes with direct impact on society, particularly in the Minangkabau region. According to him, this collaboration opens opportunities for developing various programmes, from scholarships and practitioner lectures to enhancing social literacy and student entrepreneurship. “Students will not only learn in the classroom but will also be encouraged to engage directly in community empowerment programmes as part of contextual learning,” he said. Meanwhile, Unand Secretary Aidinil Zetra stated that the partnership is not merely to implement the Tri Dharma of Higher Education. Rather, the collaboration must provide real impact for the wider community. “This collaboration is expected to truly be felt by all levels of society, and not just become an administrative partnership,” he said. Unand views the synergy with Dompet Dhuafa as aligning with the university’s commitment to providing tangible contributions to national development. On the other hand, Dompet Dhuafa sees the partnership with an academic institution as an important step to ensure social programmes are research-based, measurable, and sustainable.