Guarding Academic Dreams: IAI Al-Azis Prepares to Step on to the World Stage
By Dr. Ali Aminulloh, M.Pd.I., ME.
Returning to the Roots: The Pride of a Village Boy
Not all academic speeches begin in the theoretical realm.
Prof. Dr. H. Sugianto, SH.MH. opened his speech with down-to-earth honesty: he is a village boy, born in Gantar, West Indramayu, in the luxury of “nepet sawah” (near the rice fields), a simple expression that exudes pride. It is from there that he stands today, as a Professor and a member of the Board of Trustees of the Al-Azis Islamic Institute.
For Prof. Sugianto, his presence at the 6th graduation ceremony on Monday (12/15) at Al-Azis was not merely a ceremonial invitation, but a spiritual homecoming. A return to his homeland, a return to serve.
The Board of Trustees Is Not a Position, But a Responsibility
He emphasized that the mandate as a Board of Trustees is not merely a symbol of honor. Its primary duty is to oversee the institution’s transformation from an institute to a university.
This goal is not an empty dream. With the confidence and support of the entire academic community, Prof. Sugianto is optimistic that Al-Azis can transform into a university in the next two to three years. However, he emphasized one important point: success never stems from one person’s shoulders. It is born from togetherness and a sense of belonging.
An Academic Dream Fought for Together
In a humble yet firm tone, Prof. Sugianto expressed his hope that Al-Azis would produce professors from its own womb. He described the doctoral study process for campus leaders as part of a long-term endeavor.
“If it can be made easier, why complicate it?” he said. An ethical message about the academic world, which should honor knowledge, not complicate the path to knowledge.
For him, the academic process is not instantaneous. Doctorates are not born in two years. But with perseverance, integrity, and a sound system, great achievements are not impossible.
From Institute to International Research University
Al-Azis’ grand vision has been affirmed: to become an international-class research university.
Prof. Sugianto rejected the notion that Al-Azis is a small campus. According to him, the size of a university is not determined by location or age, but by its vision, quality, and courage to think globally.
In the era of open information, there is no reason to limit oneself. The world is now open, and Al-Azis must boldly step out, bringing Islamic ideas, science, and research to the global stage.
Campus, Industry, and the Future
Referring to Law Number 12 of 2012, Prof. Sugianto emphasized the importance of university partnerships with the business and industrial world.
Al-Azis, he argued, already has strong capital for this, both in terms of environment, resources, and institutional vision.
Universities cannot operate alone. It must respond to the needs of the times, build national and international networks, and produce graduates who are ready to work, not just possess degrees.
The Key to Transformation: Openness and Togetherness
Closing his speech, Prof. Sugianto delivered one key message: openness.
A great campus can only emerge if the entire academic community is given space to grow, contribute, and innovate. The Rector, lecturers, students, and stakeholders must work together, moving in one direction.
For Prof. Sugianto, graduation is not the end of the journey. It is the beginning of dedication, both for the inaugurated graduates and for the institution as it prepares for the future.***
Indramayu, December 18, 2025
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