Yogyakarta, July 17, 2024 – The Faculty of Science and Technology at UIN Sunan Kalijaga continues to advance the global halal industry and support sustainable development goals. Reflecting this commitment, the Faculty hosted the Opening Ceremony of the 2024 Summer Course on Wednesday, July 17, 2024, in the Theatrical Room of the Faculty of Science and Technology at UIN Sunan Kalijaga. The event saw attendance from the Rector and his team, the Dean and staff of the Faculty of Science and Technology, and academic lecturers.

Now in its third year, this annual Summer Course welcomed 31 participants from various countries, including Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Yemen, and Nigeria. The hybrid event features a comprehensive program over 14 days, from July 9 to July 23, 2024.

Under the theme "Globalization of the Halal Industry Towards SDGs," the course featured stimulating lectures from 13 domestic and international experts. Key speakers included James Chambers from the American Halal Foundation, Prof. Satomi Ohgata from Kyushu University in Japan, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nurrulhidayah Binti Ahmad Fadzillah from Inhart Malaysia, and Prof. Dr. Murniati Mukhlisin M.Acc CFP from Institut Tazkia Bogor, as well as lecturers from UIN Sunan Kalijaga and various other Indonesian universities. Participants also had the chance to tour local factories and production facilities in Yogyakarta, briefly visit Fort Vredeburg, and participate in hands-on Halal Material Testing organized by Elokarsa.

The event was officially opened by the Rector of UIN Sunan Kalijaga, Prof. Dr. Phil. H. Al Makin, S.Ag., M.A. In his welcoming speech, he warmly greeted the participants. "Please enjoy, please be happy, don't worry," concluded Prof. Dr. Phil. H. Al Makin in his opening remarks for the 2024 Summer Course.

Lela Susilawati, S.Pd., M.Si., Ph.D, the Chair of the 2024 Summer Course, added, "During the development of this event, I believe that many of you will learn a lot, share ideas with group mates, engage in discussions, and present your findings."

The day's sessions continued with a lecture by James Chambers on "Trends of Halal Lifestyle in the USA." Chambers discussed how the halal concept has expanded beyond food to various aspects of life, including fashion and financial services, significantly impacting American society.

The day concluded with the course led by Ir. Khusna Dwijayanti, ST., M.Eng., Ph.D, Asean Eng., focusing on "Halal Regulation in Indonesia." This session provided an in-depth understanding of Indonesia's halal regulations and standards, certification processes, and the challenges and opportunities in implementing these regulations.

The Summer Course serves as a learning platform for participants and an opportunity to network and collaborate with academics and professionals from various countries. The event aims to inspire and create new opportunities for all participants, strengthening international relationships in the pursuit of sustainable development goals.