West Java Official Urges Strengthening Pesantren as National Power on Indonesia's 81st Independence Day

As Indonesia celebrates its 81st Independence Day, West Java DPRD member Sidkon Djampi is calling for a renewed focus on strengthening the role of pesantren and their students, known as santri, as a vital force in national development. Djampi asserts that these Islamic boarding schools are more than just religious educational institutions; they are integral to the nation's historical struggle and continue to play a crucial role in instilling national values, building character, and maintaining societal unity.

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Pesantren have played a big role in the nation's struggle since ancient times. Therefore, after 81 years of Indonesia's independence, pesantren must continue to be part of the national development strength.

Djampi emphasized that the spirit of independence should translate into empowering human resources within the pesantren environment. He believes that santri need to be equipped with competencies relevant to the evolving times, beyond just religious knowledge. This includes fostering broad perspectives, enabling them to engage in da'wah (preaching), entrepreneurship, mastering technology, and taking leadership roles across various sectors.

Furthermore, Djampi urged pesantren to embrace digital technology and adapt to modern advancements to remain relevant educational centers for the younger generation. He also highlighted the importance of strengthening the economic independence of pesantren by developing productive business units involving santri and the local community. This, he argued, would transform pesantren into centers of economic self-sufficiency as well as education.

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The spirit of independence is the spirit of independence. Pesantren must also become increasingly independent, both in education and economy.

Djampi envisions a collaborative effort between the government, pesantren, businesses, and the community to nurture a generation that is both principled and competitive. He drew a parallel between the past role of santri and ulama in fighting for independence and their present-day responsibility to contribute to filling that independence through knowledge, ethics, creativity, and tangible work.

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If in the past santri and ulama participated in the struggle to seize independence, then today santri must be part of the struggle to fill independence with knowledge, ethics, creativity, and real work.