Have you heard of UIA? UIA, also known as As Syafi'iyah Islamic University, is a private Islamic university located in Bekasi, West Java, Indonesia. UIA was founded in 1965, originally as an Islamic education academy by KH. Abdullah Syafi'ie. And then, in 1969, it was upgraded to university status. UIA is known for integrating Islamic teachings into its curriculum. The university offers 14 study programs across six faculties: Islamic Religion, Law, Economics & Business, Science & Technology, Teacher Training & Education, and Health Sciences. As we can see, it already offers so many study programs to attract people's attention, but what exactly makes UIA less known?
In my opinion, what makes UIA less known is that people pay too much attention to public universities and underestimate private universities. The mindset that grows among people about private universities still exists. The thought that "if you go to a private university, you may not be able to get a job" is still growing in our society. Although there are a few reasons why UIA is less known..
First of all, there's nothing wrong with going to a private university as long as it has the program that you're interested in. Just like me, I love English, so I chose an English program at As Syafi'iyah Islamic University. So far, I feel fine; the subjects are always interesting. When you're interested in one subject, you're naturally motivated to learn about it. And it makes you understand the material even more, hopefully leading to a stronger desire to succeed. According to the journal by Elaine Rico-Briones Ph.d, (2019) One of the advantages of deciding a degree program and school based on personal choice makes them more independent, they are responsible for their actions, they are more aware of the pitfalls in a particular avocation, they are prepared to face the consequences of a wrong choice in career matters rather than blame their elders, they choose what they like the most.
Second of all, what makes UIA less known is that the class is smaller compared to the public university. And, of course, it may have a less diverse student body. But there's a positive side: if the class is small and the students are fewer, private universities offer more personalized attention from lecturers and a strong focus on undergraduate education. According to Bennett, (2003) A closer relationship (Professor × Student) especially in the first year at the university might help students to have a good experience and impression in the beginning of the course. Engagement is positively influenced if professors care about student’s history and try to understand their realities, Sutton & Wheatley, (2003).
Thirdly, the reason why UIA is less known is probably because it isn't quite in the city center. This might mean it's not as well-known as universities in busier parts of town. Being in a big city can be a plus. This is because universities close to important businesses, research places, and museums often get to work together more and get more money for their projects. But remember, these days, the internet is super important! A university with a great website and online presence can be famous all over the world, no matter where it is. So, I guess location is not really the main problem. Moreover, UIA also has a deep history; moreover, many of the graves of UIA's founders are located nearby. So it's best not to change the location anywhere.
In conclusion, I think private universities are underrated. Especially UIA, they deserve more recognition. Because private universities can be a great option for students who are looking for a more personalized learning experience and strong programs in their field of interest, I guess there is nothing wrong with smaller class sizes because, again, this can lead to a more personalized learning experience and better professor-student relationships. If you are interested in some of the 14 study programs at UIA or if you're looking for a university that emphasizes Islamic knowledge alongside secular subjects, UIA could be a good fit for you.
Sources and References:
Based on website: https://uia.ac.id/
Based on journal: Factors Affecting the Decision of First Year Students in Choosing their Degree Program and School, Elaine Rico-Briones, Ph.D. & David Cababaro Bueno, 2019 https://www.researchgate.net/publication/334315982_Factors_Affecting_the_Decision_of_First_Year_Students_in_Choosing_their_Degree_Program_and_School
Based on journal: The Good Professor: A Comparison Between Public and Private Universities, Renata Klafke, M.C.V De Oliveira, J.M. Ferreira, 2019
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/0022 057419875124
[EY]
Comments
Post a Comment