The Essence of a Bachelor’s Graduation Ceremony
By Dr. Abdul Wadud Nafis, Lc., MEI
In the journey of human life, there are moments that are not merely events but serve as personal milestones—and graduation is one of them. Behind the caps and gowns and the joyful smiles painted on the graduates’ faces lies a long story of struggle: sleepless nights, stacks of assignments, tears of hope, and endless prayers.
However, graduation is not just about finishing school. It is more than a formal ceremony. Graduation is the intersection between a past filled with effort and a future full of possibilities. It is the moment when knowledge meets responsibility, and a degree meets trust.
At a deeper level, graduation is a calling—not to stop learning, but to begin contributing. For in truth, being a graduate is not merely about knowing, but about giving meaning and benefit to others.
The essence of a bachelor’s graduation can be understood from several profound dimensions, not merely as a ceremonial end. Here are some of its core meanings:
1. A Symbol of Academic Achievement and Perseverance
Graduation is a symbol of success in completing higher education. It is the result of hard work, discipline, and persistence in going through a long academic process.
2. The Beginning of a New Responsibility
Graduation is not the end, but a beginning. Graduates are expected to become individuals who can apply their knowledge for the benefit of society, the nation, and humanity.
3. Academic and Moral Recognition
A bachelor’s degree is not only academic recognition but also moral: that a person is ready to think critically, uphold ethics, and act professionally.
4. A Moment for Self-Reflection and Future Planning
Graduation is a moment to reflect: what has been achieved, what is yet to be achieved, and how to navigate the future with the noble values gained during college.
5. A Mark of Collaborative Success
A graduate’s success is not theirs alone, but the result of prayers, guidance, and support from family, lecturers, and the community.
Graduation is not the finish line but the starting point toward the real field of service. Knowledge has been attained; now is the time to light the way for others. Be a graduate who is not only intelligent in thought, but also wise in action and sincere in giving. Congratulations on stepping into the real world—with your head held high, a straight heart, and noble intentions.
References
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3. Jalal, Fasli & Dedi Supriadi. (2001). Reformasi Pendidikan dalam Konteks Otonomi Daerah. Yogyakarta: Adicita Karya Nusa.
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5. Zuhairini, et al. (1993). Filsafat Pendidikan Islam. Jakarta: Bumi Aksara.
6. Law of the Republic of Indonesia No. 20 of 2003 on the National Education System.
7. Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology. (2021). Merdeka Belajar Policy: A New Direction for Higher Education in Indonesia.
8. Kompas.com. (2022). “The Meaning of Graduation and Hopes for University Graduates.” Accessed from: https://www.kompas.com/edu
9. Harian Republika. (2021). “Graduation Is Not the End of the Journey.” Accessed from: https://www.republika.co.id
