Aula of the Madinatul Ilmi Nurul Ikhlas Islamic Boarding School (PPMINI) in Korong Lubuak Aro, Nagari Tandikek, Patamuan District, Padang, was suddenly bustling with the enthusiasm of the students on Tuesday evening (September 23, 2025). While the room is usually filled with the chanting of holy verses, this time the students were absorbed in the excitement of attending a higher education socialization event brought by Universitas Terbuka (UT) Padang. This activity, themed “Santri Can Also Go to College,” is a tangible proof of UT’s role in opening access to education even in remote areas, regardless of space and time.
The Director of UT Padang, Dr. Mery Berlian, S.P., M.Si., attended in person to provide motivation. Her presence seemed to bring new energy to the students who were considering their future. With a voice full of conviction, she advised the students not to stop pursuing knowledge after graduating from the pesantren (Islamic boarding school). “Education is the path to opening a better future. Don’t be afraid to dream big, because Allah SWT provides a way for those who are willing to strive,” she said, welcomed by the enthusiastic gaze of the students.
Mery also shared her life journey, from childhood until she was entrusted to lead UT Padang. She shared this story not to boast, but as evidence that consistency in the world of education always yields results. She even gave special encouragement to those who had dropped out of school. According to her, the opportunity to continue studying remains wide open through the flexible learning system offered by UT. This message aligns with the mission of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially Goal 4 on inclusive and equitable quality education.
The students’ spirit was further ignited when Yendra Azizil Kifli, S.Ak., a staff member and alumnus of UT Padang, took the stage. In his brief testimony, he expressed pride in having studied at UT. “I am living proof that UT graduates can compete. Many national figures, including ministers, were also born from this campus. So don’t hesitate, studying at UT is the beginning of a great opportunity for success,” he said, which was immediately greeted with thunderous applause.
The head of PPMINI, Abdul Jamil Al Rasid, S.Hum., could not hide his gratitude. He considered the presence of UT Padang at the pesantren, which is far from the city center, as valuable motivation for the students. “This pesantren is a mandate from our teacher, Abuya H. Sulkani TK Sutan. Alhamdulillah, even though we are in a remote area, we still receive attention and visits from Universitas Terbuka,” he said emotionally. As a university that promotes the principle of open and distance learning, Universitas Terbuka (UT) continues to be committed to reaching all layers of society, including those living in remote areas. Through various socialization activities, direct visits, and partnership programs with local institutions such as pesantrens, UT strives to bring higher education access closer without geographical boundaries. This step is a tangible form of UT’s commitment to supporting sustainable development programs, especially Goal 10, which is Reduced Inequalities, ensuring that every individual, wherever they are, has the same opportunity to continue their education and improve their quality of life.
To make the atmosphere more lively, the committee provided door prizes for students brave enough to ask questions. Laughter occasionally broke out during the discussion, showing the renewed enthusiasm and self-confidence of the students. For many of them, the opportunity to continue college is no longer a distant dream but a real path they can take.
The event closed with a joint prayer led by Tuo Mandala Adi Putra. The sound of the prayer echoed, symbolizing the hope that the knowledge gained would bring wide benefits. The UT Padang socialization at PPMINI left a deep impression, reinforcing the belief that higher education is the right of every person. UT’s presence once again proves its role as a pioneer of distance learning universities in Indonesia, consistently providing education for all, from the city to the farthest corners of the country.
