The month of Ramadan is the perfect momentum to strengthen ties of friendship and togetherness, including among alumni. This spirit was embodied by the 44th batch of MAN 1 Cirebon Alumni through an alumni gathering and iftar (breaking of the fast) together, held at the Grand Mosque Hall of the Muhammadiyah University of Cirebon (UMC) on Monday, April 1, 2024. This year's event was special as it was organized in cooperation with the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences (FISIP) of UMC and attended by the Deputy Regent of Cirebon, Hj. Wahyu Tjiptaningsih, S.E., M.Si.

In his welcoming remarks, the Deputy Regent of Cirebon expressed his appreciation to the committee for organizing the event, which he deemed capable of strengthening alumni relationships and fostering synergy with the education sector. According to him, the momentum of Ramadan coinciding with the 542nd anniversary of Cirebon Regency presents an opportunity to build new enthusiasm in supporting the region's progress.

He emphasized that the development of Cirebon Regency cannot rely solely on the government, but requires the support and participation of all elements of society. Therefore, he invited all parties to pray together and contribute to realizing better regional development.

Wahyu Tjiptaningsih also emphasized that the progress of a region is currently determined by the quality of human resources, especially the younger generation who have education, skills, and the ability to adapt to change. According to her, regional advantage no longer relies solely on natural resource wealth, but rather on the quality of people who can face the challenges of the times.

Besides improving human resource quality, he acknowledged that Cirebon Regency still faces various other challenges, such as infrastructure development and social issues that require attention and collaboration from various parties.

Meanwhile, the Dean of FISIP UMC, Drs. Subhan Haris, M.Si., expressed his gratitude to the Deputy Regent of Cirebon and all parties who have supported the implementation of the activity. He emphasized that FISIP UMC is always open to collaboration opportunities with various partners, including educational institutions and alumni communities, as part of an effort to make a tangible contribution to society.

On that occasion, FISIP UMC also showcased student works through a joint screening of films produced by students for the Cinematography course. According to Subhan, these works are proof that the academic community of FISIP UMC continues to encourage student creativity so that they can produce works that are beneficial to society.

Furthermore, Subhan explained that FISIP UMC has the academic capacity to conduct studies and research on regional needs and potential. The results of the lecturers' research are expected to serve as input for local governments in formulating policies that are well-targeted, sustainable, and capable of addressing various development challenges, such as improving community welfare, poverty reduction, unemployment alleviation, and equitable development.

He hopes that the alumni gathering of MAN 1 Cirebon Class of 44 at UMC can become a platform for the birth of innovative ideas through collaboration between alumni, academics, and the local government in supporting the advancement of Cirebon Regency.