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| One of the I'ikaf groups of male lecturers and employees (Wildan Humas) |
In the last ten days of Ramadan, Muslims are encouraged to increase their worship and kindness. One of them is through i'tikaf activities. Seeing this, the University of Muhammadiyah Malang (UMM) held a series of i'tikaf agendas which were held at the AR Fachruddin Mosque, UMM. The events that were held in the last ten days were divided into four groups, namely, i'tikaf male lecturers, female lecturers, male employees, and female employees.
Muhammad Edi Sucipto, S.Pd.I. as the Head of the Committee explained that this event has become a UMM tradition in the month of Ramadan every year. However, the implementation is slightly different compared to last year. If the previous Ramadan the participants were required to stay overnight, this time they only followed it until eleven o'clock at night. The prepared agenda also focuses on focused discussion and spiritual strengthening.
"We also value Iktikaf which is part of the Syiar Ramadan UMM as a form of following the materials that have been delivered at Baitul Arqam," he added.
Edi, his nickname, explained that the FGD in this Iktikaf discussed the problems that Muslims usually face. Where, each class will be guided and accompanied by an instructor. After discussing, Edi saw that many questions would arise regarding the issues discussed. One example is the case of differences in the start date of Ramadan and Eid.
After the plenary session with the presenters, the event was closed with tadarus (reading) and databur (observing the meaning) of the Al-Qur'an. This is done as the founder of Muhammadiyah, KH. Ahmad Dahlan who often studies and practices the Koran.
This Tuban native hopes that this agenda can be continued in the month of Ramadan in the following years. Moreover, the enthusiasm of the participants was also high. Some even want a similar agenda outside of Ramadan. That way, they can easily recharge their spirits to become better people.
“This Ramadan Iktikaf can also be used as a forum for friendship between employees and lecturers. So we can get to know each other better so that the work environment also improves and is able to build good educational services too,” concluded Edi. (Syi/Wil)
