FAI UMS Hosts National ISC XVI 2026, Offers Scholarships for Outstanding Islamic Youth

The Faculty of Islamic Studies (FAI) at Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta (UMS) once again organized the 16th National Islamic Student Competition (ISC) 2026. Held on 13–14 February under the theme "Youth Achieving with an Islamic Spirit," the competition aims to nurture high-achieving and adaptive young generations in upholding Islamic values amid rapidly changing times.

Thoriq, Chair of the ISC XVI National 2026 Organizing Committee, reported that a total of 475 senior high school students or equivalent, representing several provinces across Indonesia, participated in the competition. He expressed hope that through this event, participants would be able to develop their skills.

"The hope for organizing this event is to provide a platform for self-discovery, honing abilities, and gaining experience in various fields according to each participant's respective area," he said at the opening ceremony on Friday (13/2/2026).

The Vice Dean I of FAI UMS, Alfiyatul Azizah, Lc., M.Ud., delivered remarks on behalf of the Dean, Dr. Muhammad Ali, S.Ag., M.Pd., at the opening of ISC XVI. In her speech, she emphasized FAI UMS's commitment to advancing Indonesia through community guidance.

Alfiyatul added that students have a responsibility to maintain Islamic brotherhood (ukhuwah Islamiyah) to ensure the continued central role of ulama across all levels of society amid the challenges of changing times.

"Especially as we are currently in less than ideal conditions. The economy rises and falls, society needs guidance from ulama, and policymakers need the counsel of ulama in determining policies," she stressed.

She also delivered encouraging news: FAI UMS is offering scholarships in the form of tuition fee reductions and study development fee waivers for winners who wish to continue their studies in any study program at FAI UMS.

Scholarships for the winners are not merely a form of recognition, but also an opportunity for students to develop their potential. This was conveyed by the Director of the Directorate of Student Affairs and Innovation Talent Development (DKPTI), Dr. Ahmad Kholid Alghofari, S.T., M.T., when opening the ISC XVI 2026 competition.

"We advise you to make this competition a space to expand networks, share experiences, and gain inspiration. Show your best abilities, but continue to uphold sportsmanship, honesty, and academic ethics," he said.

Kholid also stated that UMS has received 8,019 applicants to date. The increase in academic and non-academic achievements at both national and international levels reflects UMS's improved positioning in the community.

The organization of this competition received support from various parties, including the Central Java Provincial Office of the Ministry of Religious Affairs. Nurzaini Wahyu Widodo, S.Kom., S.H., M.Hum., representing the Head of the Central Java Ministry of Religious Affairs, expressed appreciation for the implementation of the ISC competition.

"The Central Java Ministry of Religious Affairs extends its highest appreciation to all administrators, the dean, and the leadership of FAI UMS, and to UMS in general, for organizing this 16th ISC. This is truly extraordinary," he added.

He further noted that the collaboration between the Ministry of Religious Affairs and UMS strengthens the university’s position as a center for the development of Islamic education in Indonesia.

Writer: Roselia

Editor: Maysali Sudarwati

Translator: Farizal Luqman Majid