Islamic Economics Program: International KKN Program in Saudi Arabia
Ciputat October 10, 2024. UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta has successfully carried out its International Community Service Program (KKN) in Saudi Arabia from August 10 to September 21, 2024. This program, which lasted 40 days, involved not only students from UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta but also collaborative participation from UIN K.H. Abdurrahman Wahid Pekalongan and UIN Sunan Gunung Djati Bandung.
The program was attended by 14 students from the three universities, divided into three main locations: the Indonesian School in Mecca, Jeddah, and Riyadh. One of the participants, Mahira Fikriya, a student from the Faculty of Economics and Business, majoring in Islamic Economics at UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta, was assigned to serve at the Indonesian School in Mecca. Mahira played an active role in educational activities and contributed significantly to various social programs, particularly in the fields of Islamic economics and entrepreneurship. Her proficiency in Arabic allowed her to assist in teaching, especially in special classes where students required additional support in mastering the Indonesian language.
During the program, the KKN members taught students from kindergarten to high school, while also contributing to religious, cultural, and social values according to the needs of each school. In addition to teaching, Mahira and her fellow KKN members initiated several key programs, including the celebration of Indonesia's Independence Day, educational field trips, and the commemoration of the Prophet Muhammad's birthday. These activities were designed not only to engage students but also to enhance their academic and cultural understanding.
The Independence Day celebration, held on August 16-17, 2024, included a flag ceremony and a variety of competitions. On September 10, 2024, the KKN team organized an educational trip for kindergarten students from the Indonesian School in Mecca to the Museum of Revelation at Hira Cave, aimed at introducing them to the significance of the first revelation received by the Prophet Muhammad and fostering an early appreciation for Islamic history. The program concluded with a joint celebration on September 20, 2024, marking both the Prophet's birthday and Saudi Arabia's National Day, which featured religious sermons and artistic performances.
In addition to these activities, the KKN team hosted two training seminars. The first seminar, titled "Skill Development," focused on henna decoration, while the second, "Entrepreneurship Learning," offered an introduction to entrepreneurship, featuring training on the Business Model Canvas. Mahira Fikriya played a pivotal role as a speaker in the "Entrepreneurship Learning" seminar, where she provided comprehensive insights into entrepreneurship and highlighted business opportunities for students. Drawing on her background in Islamic Economics, she introduced the students to the Business Model Canvas, emphasizing the importance of developing entrepreneurial skills aligned with Islamic values.
These seminars were designed to equip students with practical knowledge and skills, especially those returning to Indonesia, where they can apply their learning in future careers. Through these activities, the International KKN program in Saudi Arabia not only facilitated cross-cultural experiences but also empowered students to contribute meaningfully to their communities, with a focus on social entrepreneurship and Islamic economic principles.