The Indonesian higher education sector has just received some exciting news. UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta made history by breaking into the world’s top 29 in the Theology, Divinity & Religious Studies category of the QS World University Rankings (WUR) at the end of March 2026. This prestigious leap not only positions UIN Jakarta as a leader at the national level but also reinforces Indonesia’s standing as a globally recognized center for moderate Islamic studies.

This achievement is no coincidence. It is the result of a long-standing commitment to institutional transformation. While religious studies have often been viewed through a traditional lens, UIN Jakarta’s entry into the global elite ranks demonstrates that the integration of knowledge—the convergence of revelation and science—is on the right track.

The Recontextualization of Theology in the Modern Era
A global ranking of 29th in the field of Theology reflects international recognition of the academic depth and research reputation at UIN Jakarta. However, what is particularly noteworthy is how “non-religious” disciplines within the university, such as the Faculty of Economics and Business (FEB), have also made significant contributions to the ecosystem that has elevated this ranking.

One of the key elements in the QS WUR methodology is research citations and academic reputation. In this context, the Faculty of Economics and Business (FEB) at UIN Jakarta, under the leadership of Dean Prof. Dr. Ibnu Qizam, M.Si, has taken concrete steps to strengthen the university’s research pillar.

The “One Doctor, One Year, One Scopus” Commitment
The Dean of FEB emphasized that the faculty’s contributions must not be limited to classroom teaching but must materialize in globally recognized intellectual outputs. Through the flagship program “One Doctor, One Year, One Scopus,” FEB is committed to ensuring that every faculty member holding a doctoral degree publishes at least one research paper in a reputable international journal (Scopus) each year, supported by APC (article publication charge) funding from the faculty.

This program is not merely about chasing publication numbers. It is a systematic effort to ground theology within the economic sphere. Studies on Sharia Financial Management, Islamic Fintech, and Islamic philanthropy (Zakat, Waqf, or other forms of crowdfunding) are no longer merely topics of classical fiqh but have transformed into scientific solutions for global economic challenges. With the increased volume and quality of research from FEB, UIN Jakarta’s overall citation score has also risen, which is one of the key factors driving the university’s rise in the QS World University Rankings.

Interdisciplinary Synergy and Global Networks
This success offers a valuable lesson: global rankings are the culmination of a robust integration process. FEB does not stand as a purely economic faculty, but rather as an entity that brings theological DNA into modern business practice. When the economics curriculum is integrated with deep Sharia ethics and supported by a strong research culture, the result is a unique competitive advantage.

Beyond research, FEB also strengthens the university’s employer reputation. Graduates pursuing careers at global financial institutions and international audit firms project UIN Jakarta as a professional institution that remains steadfast in upholding moral values. This reinforces the global perception that theological education at UIN Jakarta is practical and relevant.

Looking Toward the Future
UIN Jakarta has proven that Islamic educational institutions can compete at the highest level without losing their identity. Through strong collaboration among faculties—where the Faculty of Religion strengthens the foundation of values and faculties such as the Faculty of Economics and Business expand the scope of implementation through internationally recognized research—the goal of remaining among the ranks of World Class Universities is no longer just a dream.

This achievement of ranking 29th in the world is a momentum to continue innovating. Through commitments such as the “One Doctor, One Year, One Scopus” program, progressive theological messages and equitable economic solutions from Ciputat are expected to continue making tangible contributions to global civilization.

Ady Cahyadi

FEB Lecture