Friday, 23 October 2026
DELI SERDANG | INDATANEWS.COM - Islamic boarding schools, known as Pesantren, play a strategically important role in preparing their students, known as Santri, for technological developments. Their focus is on acquiring knowledge, encouraging innovation and strengthening exemplary character. Education at Pesantren aims to nurture a generation that not only understands religious values but also possesses the skills needed to meet the challenges of the modern era.
This message was at the heart of the 2026 Provincial-Level National Santri Day celebrations in North Sumatra. The ceremony took place on Thursday, 22 October 2026, in the square in front of the Deli Serdang Regency Administration Office in Lubuk Pakam. Held under the theme "Empowering Santri to Strengthen the Nation on the Path to a Golden Indonesia", the event highlighted the contribution of Santri to national development through education, technological competence and character formation.Deli Serdang Deputy Regent Lom Lom Suwondo SS expressed his appreciation for the trust placed in the regency to host the provincial-level celebrations. He hoped National Santri Day would encourage students at Islamic boarding schools to improve the quality of their education, preserve the values upheld by Pesantren and participate actively in national development.
"May this Santri Day provide further motivation for students to improve the quality of their education, preserve their faith and character, and make a tangible contribution to the nation and state," he said.The ceremony was led by Sulaiman Harahap, the Inspector of North Sumatra Province, who represented the provincial governor. Also attending were Ahmad Qosbi, Head of the Regional Office of the Ministry of Religious Affairs in North Sumatra; heads of district and municipal offices of the Ministry of Religious Affairs; representatives of local governments; leaders of Islamic boarding schools; Islamic scholars; and students from Pesantren.
In a speech by Indonesian Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar, read out by Sulaiman Harahap, the government emphasised the importance of continuing the struggle of Islamic scholars and Santri through achievement, dedicated service and tangible contributions to the country.
Santri were encouraged to develop their abilities across a range of fields to keep pace with changes in their time. Knowledge of science and technology was described as an important foundation for creating more opportunities for creative and productive work, improving competitiveness and contributing to national development without abandoning Islamic values.Technological progress offers numerous opportunities for education, but it also brings new challenges. Pesantren must therefore continue to improve the quality of their teaching and encourage students to develop critical thinking, creativity and skills that meet the needs of society.
However, mastering technology is not enough without a strong moral foundation. Santri must also uphold integrity, discipline, responsibility and exemplary character so that they can apply their knowledge and abilities wisely.The theme, "Empowering Santri to Strengthen the Nation on the Path to a Golden Indonesia", underscores the importance of Santri in developing the country's human resources. They are expected not only to preserve religious traditions but also to engage in education, social affairs, the economy and technology.
By combining modern knowledge with the values taught at Pesantren, Santri have the opportunity to become a generation capable of adapting to change while remaining faithful to their moral and religious principles.
Beyond preparing Santri for technological change, Pesantren carry significant responsibility for strengthening education, religious outreach and community development. These three functions provide a foundation for nurturing a knowledgeable, principled and self-reliant generation with a strong sense of social responsibility.
In the Minister of Religious Affairs' speech, the government stated that it would continue to expand its support for Pesantren. One of the measures highlighted was the establishment of a Directorate General for Pesantren within the Ministry of Religious Affairs. The directorate is intended to support institutional development and help Pesantren fulfil their responsibilities."Pesantren are expected to carry out their three main functions to the fullest, namely education, religious outreach and strengthening community self-reliance. These three functions are essential to producing a knowledgeable generation, fostering social harmony, promoting economic independence and improving public welfare," he added.
Through education, Pesantren can equip Santri with knowledge and skills that improve their future prospects. Religious outreach, meanwhile, helps reinforce religious values, promote harmonious relations and strengthen mutual respect within a diverse society.Community development also enables Pesantren to contribute to improving people's living conditions. Developing economic activities, expanding vocational skills and strengthening self-reliance are among the measures that can extend their benefits beyond the immediate sphere of education.
These three functions can also provide a foundation for preparing Santri for economic and social changes arising from technological progress. With a solid education, strong character and skills suited to contemporary demands, they are expected to take responsibility across a range of professions and productive activities.Strengthening Pesantren, therefore, is not solely about preserving religious education. It is also closely linked to preparing young people for future challenges. Cooperation between educational institutions, the government and society remains an important factor in sustainably improving the quality of Santri education.
This historical legacy serves as a reminder of the important role Santri have played in the nation's history. While earlier generations confronted threats to independence, today's Santri face different challenges, including technological change, global competition and the need to improve the quality of human resources.
"While Santri in the past fought to defend independence, today they are expected to strengthen the country by mastering science and technology, fostering innovation and demonstrating exemplary character," he said.This message highlights that the spirit of struggle must go beyond commemorating history. Santri are expected to translate it into concrete action by developing their personal abilities, generating new ideas, achieving meaningful results and serving society.
As technology continues to advance, Santri must also engage with changes affecting everyday life. The ability to use technology productively, combined with critical thinking and a sense of responsibility, can help them realise their potential while creating benefits for their communities.During the celebrations, the organising committee presented the overall championship trophy in the regency-level Musabaqah competition held as part of National Santri Day to At-Tibyan Islamic Boarding School. The award recognised the achievements of Pesantren participating in the National Santri Day events.
The committee also presented certificates of appreciation to Darul Quran Tahfizh Boarding School and Al Azhar As Syarif Islamic Boarding School. The recognition acknowledged their support in sending Scout members to represent North Sumatra at the sixth National Santri Scout Camp (Perkemahan Pramuka Santri Nusantara, PPSN VI) in 2026, held in Malang, East Java.Santri participation in Scouting activities also helps develop character, discipline, leadership and teamwork. These values complement the education provided at Pesantren and offer an important foundation for addressing life's increasingly complex challenges.
Through the 2026 National Santri Day celebrations, Deli Serdang Regency is contributing to efforts to strengthen the role of Pesantren in preparing future generations. Scientific and technological competence, the promotion of innovation and strong character are essential if Santri are to adapt to change without losing their identity.Ultimately, preparing for the age of technology requires a balance between professional competence and character formation. Through a sound education, a strong willingness to learn and the practical application of religious values, Santri are expected to make tangible contributions to society while helping Indonesia realise its Golden Indonesia vision. (IDNC)
REPORTER: Edi Saputra | EDITOR: Fik Sagala
