Yemeni Graduate Shares Heartwarming University Journey

A joyful glow radiated from the face of Ali Essam Ali Al-Sanaani, a Mechanical Engineering graduate from Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta (UMS) who hails from Yemen. He had just officially earned his engineering degree at the third graduation ceremony for the 2024/2025 academic year, held at the KH Ahmad Dahlan Edutorium on Friday (11/4/2025).

As the only international student graduating that day, Ali was chosen to deliver a speech in front of thousands of fellow graduates. He shared that UMS had become a special place for him and other international students.

“Here, we not only gain knowledge, but also learn the value of hard work. I am proud to be a graduate of UMS,” said Ali in his speech.

Ali Essam Ali Al-Sanaani, a Mechanical Engineering graduate from UMS and a native of Yemen, delivers a speech before the graduates of the third graduation ceremony at the KH Ahmad Dahlan Edutorium, UMS, on Friday, April 11, 2025. (UMS Public Relations)

Graduation was a special moment for the brown-eyed young man. His five-year academic journey at UMS finally paid off. He now holds a degree certificate in his hand.

Ali shared that his time studying at UMS was filled with challenges. Five years of study was no short time for him. Language and cultural differences were among his biggest obstacles at the beginning of his academic journey.

“I struggled with the language at first. Eventually, I decided to learn Indonesian, even though I was enrolled in the international class,” he said when met after the graduation ceremony.

He expressed gratitude for the supportive environment he found. Ali got to know friends and lecturers who helped him adapt to life in Indonesia. For example, whenever he made mistakes speaking Indonesian, his lecturers and friends kindly corrected him.

Studying in Indonesia left a deep impression on Ali. His journey in Indonesia allowed him to explore various regions of the country. Now 26 years old, Ali also took part in several community service programs, one of which was in Kalianda, Lampung.

The program, held in January last year, gave Ali the chance to engage directly with the local community. He recalled one of the most memorable moments was visiting Aisyiyah Elementary School in Kalianda.

“I had the chance to teach English and Arabic to the students there,” said Ali, who also admitted he’s a fan of nasi Padang.

To fellow graduates, Ali encouraged them to keep the spirit alive in pursuing their dreams. Achieving those dreams requires perseverance and determination.

“InshaAllah, you’ll get there, as long as you never stop learning and don’t be lazy. Just do it,” he said.

Writer: Gede Arga Adrian

Translator: Farizal Luqman Majid