Universitas Terbuka (UT) Palembang continues to broaden access to higher education for all segments of society, including those within Islamic boarding schools (pesantren). On Monday, June 2, 2025, UT Palembang conducted an introductory session at Pondok Pesantren Rubath Al Muhibbien, Palembang. This activity aimed to introduce UT’s flexible distance learning system, which allows santri (Islamic boarding school students) to pursue higher education without disrupting their pondok activities. 

The event was attended by the UT Palembang team, the board of the UT Service Center (SALUT) Palembang, pesantren administrators, and santri who eagerly followed presentations on the various study programs offered by UT. During the presentation, UT introduced its self-directed and online learning system, enabling santri to continue their higher education without leaving the pesantren environment. 

“UT provides a solution for anyone who wants to study but has time and location constraints. With a self-directed and online learning system, santri can continue their education without having to leave their activities at the pesantren,” said Yogi Safran, S.Kom., a UT Palembang staff member. 

The leader of Pondok Pesantren Rubath Al Muhibbien, Habib M. Helmi Shahab, SE., MM., expressed his appreciation for this activity. “We warmly welcome the presence of UT Palembang. This is a great opportunity for santri to continue developing themselves academically without having to leave the pesantren environment. We hope this cooperation continues,” he said. 

The Head of SALUT Palembang, Zuldes Fahri, S.Pd., also attended and provided explanations regarding learning services and the registration process at UT. “Universitas Terbuka is here to provide an opportunity for anyone who wants to pursue higher education without having to leave their daily activities. This is very suitable for santri who can stay in the pondok while studying,” he explained during the presentation. 

The enthusiasm of the santri was evident during the Q&A session and direct consultations regarding registration and study programs. Programs such as Management, Communication Studies, and Islamic Religious Education were popular choices, as they were deemed aligned with the needs and interests of the santri. 

Through this activity, UT Palembang, together with SALUT Palembang, continues to promote increased literacy and inclusive, open access to higher education for all segments of society. UT’s presence in pesantren is part of its mission to foster a generation excellent in science and technology while upholding religious values.