Inter-study collaboration: The Faculty of Islamic Studies at Muhammadiyah University of Sidoarjo (FAI Umsida) has once again demonstrated its commitment to improving the quality of Islamic-based education through a strategic collaboration between the Islamic Banking Study Program at Umsida and the Islamic Economics Study Program at Muhammadiyah University of Lamongan (Umla). This collaboration was realized through a guest lecture titled "Basic Islamic Monetary Economics: The Phenomenon of the Crisis in Indonesia," held on December 18, 2024. Through a lecturer exchange program and hybrid learning, FAI Umsida solidifies its role as a center for innovative education while strengthening synergies between Muhammadiyah universities. An Initial Collaboration Opens New Opportunities This collaboration is not only a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), but also the beginning of a sustainable academic relationship. Under this collaboration, lecturers from Umla will teach at Umsida and vice versa, in a hybrid format that allows for flexibility in learning. This is a first in the history of both study programs and is expected to have a significant impact on the quality of Islamic education.

"This collaboration is not only about transferring knowledge, but also strengthening the academic network between the two universities," said Ninda Ardiani, SEI SEI, Head of the Islamic Banking Study Program at Umsida, who was the keynote speaker at the guest lecture. She added that this program will provide a significant opportunity for students to gain broader insights through various perspectives.

Guest Lecture as the Beginning of Synergy The guest lecture, titled "Basic Islamic Monetary Economics: The Phenomenon of the Crisis in Indonesia," opened this series of collaborations. Held in the FEB Meeting Room, Building E, 5th Floor, Umsida, the event was attended by students from both universities, both in person and online. In her presentation, Ninda Ardiani explained how Islamic economic principles can provide solutions to address the global economic crisis.

"Islamic economics focuses on justice and balance. These principles are highly relevant to apply amidst today's economic challenges," Ninda explained.

In addition to the material rich in analysis and practical solutions, the question-and-answer session provided an interactive opportunity for students to delve deeper into the application of Islamic economics in a monetary context. The students' active participation demonstrates their enthusiasm for the program, which is a positive sign for the continued collaboration.

Expectations and Sustainability of the Program Collaboration This lecturer exchange and hybrid learning program is designed to continue on a regular basis. In the near future, lecturers from the Umsida Islamic Banking Study Program will also deliver lectures at Umla, focusing on relevant topics to enrich students' knowledge in Islamic economics.

This collaboration is also expected to result in joint research between the two study programs, focusing on the development of an adaptive and innovative Islamic economic system. With the support of technology and Muhammadiyah's extensive network, this program serves as a form of implementing sustainable education based on Islamic values.

"We hope that this collaboration will be the first step in building a mutually supportive educational ecosystem and producing superior, globally competitive graduates who remain grounded in Islamic values," concluded Ninda.

The collaboration between the Umsida Islamic Banking Study Program and the Umla Islamic Economics Study Program is a strategic step that affirms the commitment of both universities to providing quality and competitive education. With a hybrid learning model, faculty exchanges, and innovative technology-based approaches, this program not only strengthens academic synergy but also opens up new opportunities for students to thrive in the global era. Umsida, through its Islamic Studies Program (PBS), continues to prove itself as the primary choice for those seeking to study Islamic education and Islamic economics holistically, while also preparing competent graduates to face the challenges of the times.

Author: AHW Source: https://fai.umsida.ac.id/kerja-sama-prodi-syariah-fai-umsida