On November 14, 2024, Sekolah Tinggi Ekonomi Islam SEBI (STEI SEBI) in Depok held its 19th graduation ceremony, marking a significant milestone in its 25-year journey in Islamic higher education. The event took place at the UTCC building in Tangerang Selatan and was presided over by Sigit Pramono, Ph.D., CA., CPA., the Chairman of the College Senate.
The ceremony was themed “Resilient Generations Building Civilization,” highlighting the institution’s commitment to fostering young Muslim leaders. In line with this theme, STEI SEBI emphasizes five core values among its students: good moral character, achievement, organizational skills, professionalism, and pioneering community revival. These principles aim to equip graduates to uphold Islamic values and contribute positively to society.
Dr. Sepky Mardian, S.E.I., M.M., SAS., the Vice Chairman for Academic Affairs, opened the academic report by congratulating the graduates who have officially earned their degrees in Accounting, Economics, and Law.
“Congratulations to all of you. May Allah’s blessings be with you now and in the future. You now hold academic titles that will be a source of pride for you and your families,” Dr. Sepky stated.
This graduation saw 230 students awarded degrees, with 65 graduates from the Sharia Accounting program, 37 from the Sharia Banking program, 80 from Sharia Business Management, and 48 from Sharia Economic Law. Notably, 75 graduates, or 33%, achieved cum laude honors, and 161, representing 69%, secured employment before graduation.
“They have embarked on careers in various Islamic financial institutions, philanthropic organizations, and both government and private sectors,” Dr. Sepky noted.
He also highlighted the achievements of STEI SEBI students over the past five years, with 99 awards won at regional and international levels, alongside 56 scientific papers published, 5% of which reached international standards.
In his concluding remarks, Dr. Sepky shared motivational quotes from notable Indonesian figures. He cited M. Natsir, a renowned cleric and independence activist: “Do not stop rowing, or the current will carry you away. Freedom is only attained by a nation whose spirit burns with the determination, ‘Free, free or die!’”
Words of Wisdom for Graduates
The ceremony featured Dr. M. Asmeldi Firman, Ak., M.M., CA., BKP, Chairman of the Bina Tsaqofah Foundation, and Prof. Dr. H. Wawan Hernawan, M.Ag., Secretary of Kopertais Region 2 West Java.
Dr. Asmeldi offered key insights for graduates navigating the challenges of today’s digital age. “First, knowledge must be paired with ethics; without it, knowledge becomes meaningless. Second, seek long-term goals that yield benefits for both this world and the hereafter. Third, contribute positively to achieve the aspirations of our nation and community,” he advised.
Prof. Wawan praised STEI SEBI’s focus on character development in education. “We hope STEI SEBI continues to grow and contribute to education, and we expect graduates to become dedicated leaders for this nation,” he said.