Banyuwangi, December 6, 2024 – Head of the Islamic Communication and Broadcasting Study Program (KPI) of the Faculty of Da'wah and Communication Sciences, UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta, Dr. Yopi Kusmiati, M.Sc., emphasized the importance of digital literacy in the world of education, especially in Islamic boarding schools. "Many teachers in Islamic boarding schools still do not understand digital literacy, especially in the use of mobile phones. We are here to provide an understanding of how to optimally utilize digital media," said Dr. Yopi in the Community Service Activity Based on Study Programs at the Miftahul Ulum Islamic Boarding School, Wonorejo, Banyuwangi, Thursday (5/12).

This activity was initiated by a community service team based on the KPI study program consisting of ten people and led directly by Dr. HM Yakub, MA. The event is one of a series of community service programs with the theme of digital literacy, which aims to improve the understanding of technology among Islamic boarding school ustaz and ustazah.

In his speech, Gus Erfan Zainul Fanan, the caretaker of the Miftahul Ulum Islamic Boarding School, welcomed this activity. "We are very grateful for this great gift. One of the most basic is knowledge and science. This digital literacy theme is very relevant, especially since it will be explained in more detail by the fathers and mothers," he said.

Dr. Ade Masturi, MA, who was also a resource person, highlighted the importance of good communication in the digital era. “Communication is built through talking and listening. In this context, talking should be a means of spreading goodness and knowledge, not lies or hoaxes. In Islam, we are taught to speak correctly ( qaulan sadida ), fluently and clearly ( qaulan baligha ), and with empathy ( qaulan layyina ),” he explained .

Dr. Umi Musyarofah, MA, added the importance of forming individuals with noble character for educators in Islamic boarding schools. "In Islam, speaking ability is not only about technique, but also about moral and spiritual integrity. Spiritual development through worship such as prayer and dhikr becomes a strong foundation for speaking with sincerity and conviction. The attitude of humility must also be maintained to create communication that respects and empowers," she said, emphasizing the importance of moral education as the basis for civilized communication .

This community service is also a new step for the KPI study program, which previously carried out similar activities in the Jabodetabek area. "This is the first time the KPI Department has carried out community service outside Jabodetabek. One of our targets is the Indonesian Literacy House, but we feel the need to expand to Islamic boarding schools," added Dr. Yopi.

This activity not only expands the scope of community service, but also aims to empower Islamic boarding schools in utilizing digital technology for learning. "It would be a shame if this service was only carried out in one place. Islamic boarding schools must also benefit greatly from digital literacy," he added.

The digital literacy activity at Miftahul Ulum Islamic Boarding School ended with an interactive discussion and question and answer session. The participants looked enthusiastic, realizing the importance of digital literacy as an important capital in facing the challenges of education in the technological era.