Yogyakarta, October 10, 2024 — The Student Association of the Master’s Program in Islamic Economics (HMPM), UIN Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta, successfully held the Economic Literacy Festival under the theme “Smart Economics for Future Generations.” This event was not merely ceremonial, but marked an important moment that introduced innovative breakthroughs by integrating economics with language and literature.

The highlight of the event began with an enthusiastic opening address by the Chair of the Organizing Committee, Miftahus Surur, S.E. He emphasized that economics is not merely about numbers and data, but a journey that touches human life. “We need to cultivate a sense of care and sensitivity toward socio-economic conditions. Economics is about welfare, empathy, and justice,” he stated. Through a literary approach, participants were invited to view economics from a broader perspective—rooted in morality and human values.

The Chair of HMPM, Muhammad Budi Utama, S.E., explained that the Economic Literacy Festival was part of the anniversary celebration of HMPM. “This event reflects our commitment to developing literacy and writing culture among students,” he noted.

Furthermore, Dr. Muhammad Ghafur Wibowo, S.E., M.Sc., Head of the Master’s Program in Islamic Economics (MES), highlighted that this innovation was the result of outstanding collaboration among students. In a life dominated by rationality, efforts to synergize and balance it with emotional sensitivity represent a fresh and creative approach. This balance, he explained, is what makes the event distinctive.

The event was officially opened by Dr. Ahmad Salehuddin, S.Th.I., M.A., Vice Dean for Student Affairs and Cooperation. In his remarks, he emphasized that knowledge must continue to evolve. The launch of the economic poetry book “Semesta Finansial” and the children’s storybook “Murah dan Berkah” was described as a brilliant step toward new dynamics in the field of economics—an extraordinary achievement and a starting point for a more dynamic academic culture among economics students. He officially launched both books by reciting one of the poems, which deeply moved the audience.

The event continued with a seminar featuring Dr. Siti Nur Azizah, S.E.I., M.E.I. as the keynote speaker. During the seminar, participants were encouraged to explore economic literacy insights aimed at achieving a brighter future. The discussion atmosphere was highly interactive, with participants actively asking questions and sharing practical economic strategies applicable to daily life.

Held at the 5th Floor Auditorium of FEBI, the event was attended by academics, students, writers, and literacy activists. With nearly 100 participants, the auditorium was filled with enthusiasm and vibrant energy. The event concluded with the announcement of winners of the economic poetry writing and financial-themed children’s story competitions, which attracted hundreds of participants from across Indonesia.

The event received full support from Bacaan Media Publishing, WAW Media, and Muara Media. Selected works from the economic poetry and children’s story competitions were published, and the organizers also facilitated the provision of reading materials for the book bazaar held during the event. The book bazaar served as a practical implementation of economic knowledge learned in class, attracting participants to purchase featured books and making the event not only a seminar, but also an engaging learning experience. Bacaan Media Publishing, WAW Media, and Muara Media also contributed to expanding the collection of the Master’s Program in Islamic Economics (MES) Corner, which had been launched two months earlier.

Through the Economic Literacy Festival, HMPM Islamic Economics has introduced a new way of understanding and celebrating economics—making it more engaging, creative, and relevant for future generations.