TRAINING OF TRAINERS (TOT): STRENGTHENING RELIGIOUS MODERATION FOR EXPANDING DIVERSITY AWARENESS AMONG RELIGIOUS UNIVERSITY LECTURERS
UINSA Newsroom, Sunday (12/10/2023); From Monday, December 4 to 10, 2023, a Training of Trainer (TOT) event was held emphasizing the importance of strengthening religious moderation for lecturers in Religious Higher Education Institutions (PTK). UIN Sunan Ampel (UINSA) Surabaya was entrusted as the Organizer Higher Education Institution (PTP) for this TOT event. The event was attended by numerous lecturers from various Religious Higher Education Institutions committed to enhancing their understanding and skills in moderating inclusive religious discussions that respect differences.
The event was inaugurated by the Vice Rector for Student Affairs and Cooperation of UINSA, Prof. Dr. Abdul Muhid, M.Sc., marking the university’s commitment to fostering an inclusive and diverse atmosphere. “This activity is a crucial step in preparing lecturers to become agents of change who promote tolerance and appreciation for diversity in the academic environment,” said Prof. Abdul Muhid.
In a series of TOT sessions, UINSA Rector Prof. Akh. Muzakki and Efa Ainul Falah, a prominent speaker and trainer, shared their knowledge and experiences with the participants. The speakers highlighted strategies for moderating discussions that respect diverse religious perspectives without neglecting the values of diversity.
Prof. Akh. Muzakki stated that religious moderation is a crucial asset amid diversity. “Effective religious moderation is a key factor in building better understanding among individuals with different religious backgrounds,” he emphasized.
“We aim to provide practical skills to lecturers for creating a safe, profound, and open space for all religious viewpoints in discussions,” added Efa Ainul Falah.
In line with this, Hasan Mahfudh, Chairman of the House of Religious Moderation and Counter-Terrorism at UINSA, expressed that this event is crucial for expanding and advocating religious moderation across ministries.
Participants in the TOT affirmed that this activity not only strengthens individual capacities but also provides a solid foundation for universities to create an inclusive learning environment. It is hoped that the participating lecturers will bring significant positive changes to their academic environments.
Furthermore, it is anticipated that this TOT will reflect a progressive step in expanding the understanding of diversity in higher education institutions, serving as an inspirational model for similar efforts in the future. (*)
Reported by: House of Religious Moderation and Counter-Terrorism Team
Editor: Nur Hayati
Photo layout: MN. Cahaya
