In line with its tagline “From UGM for Indonesia”, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) continues to demonstrate its commitment to society through various initiatives. This dedication was recognized by the National Amil Zakat Agency (Baznas) at the 2025 Baznas Award ceremony held on Thursday, Aug. 28, 2025, at Hotel Mercure Ancol, Jakarta. At the national award event, UGM was honored with the award in the category of Best Partner University.
The award was presented directly by the Chair of Baznas RI, Professor Noor Achmad, to Dr. Yahya Agung Kuntadi, Head of the UGM Jakarta Administration Working Team, who represented the university at the event.
In the Best Partner category, UGM was named one of the 15 universities recognized for their active involvement in literacy programs, scholarship distribution, and community empowerment initiatives related to zakat.
UGM University Secretary, Dr. Andi Sandi Antonius Tabusassa Tonralipu, expressed his gratitude for UGM’s recognition as Best Partner University by Baznas.
According to him, the award serves as an external acknowledgment of the partnerships UGM has built with various stakeholders to support community benefits through the university’s tridharma activities.
“This award further motivates the academic community to strengthen Baznas’ role as a driver and manager of zakat through research, publications, and other community service activities,” said Dr. Tonralipu on Tuesday, Sep. 2, 2025.
He further explained that UGM’s collaboration with Baznas is also reflected in the Beasiswa Cendekia Baznas (BCB) scholarship program, which demonstrates the strong relationship between the two institutions.
The impact of the program goes beyond changing the lives of students, as it also uplifts their families.
The Best Partner category also highlights the contribution of UGM’s Zakat Collection Unit (UPZ), which actively engages students in various activities while serving as a bridge between the university and beneficiary communities.
Meanwhile, Professor Noor Achmad expressed his deep appreciation for zakat advocates, particularly educational institutions that advance literacy in academia.
He noted the rapid growth of journals addressing various perspectives on Islamic themes.
“Studies on zakat have begun to resonate in universities. Five years ago, it was difficult to find journals on zakat, or they were almost nonexistent,” Professor Achmad remarked.
This spirit aligns with the efforts of UGM’s academic community, which has been actively developing research leading to books and scientific publications on zakat.
According to Professor Achmad, this movement must be continued as a crucial step in enhancing zakat literacy in Indonesia.
Author: Hanifah
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Post-editor: Lintang Andwyna
Photograph: Baznas