Jakarta, December 27, 2024 – The Da'wah Management Study Program, Faculty of Da'wah and Communication Sciences, UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta held a guest lecturer activity that discussed the latest topics on zakat, waqf, and innovations in Islamic philanthropy. This event presented Prof. Amelia Fauzia, M.A., Ph.D, Director of the Social Trust Fund (STF) UIN Jakarta, as the main speaker. The activity, which took place at the Prof. Dr. H. R. Husnul Aqib Suminto Theater, was attended by students and lecturers.

In the interactive lecture session, Prof. Amelia discussed the strategic role of Islamic philanthropy in supporting the people's economy, with an emphasis on the application of technology and innovations in philanthropic programs. According to her, Islamic philanthropy, such as zakat and productive waqf, is not only a social assistance tool, but also a solution for sustainable economic empowerment.

"Islamic philanthropy has great potential to overcome social problems through a more innovative approach, such as the application of sharia fintech and digital crowdfunding platforms," ​​said Prof. Amelia. She also highlighted the importance of integrating the SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals) framework into philanthropic programs to create long-term impacts.

Technological Innovation in Islamic Philanthropy
Prof. Amelia explained global and national trends in the use of technology to maximize fundraising. "In the digital era, online donations have become more inclusive and massive. However, it is important to ensure transparency and accountability in fund management, in accordance with sharia principles," she said.

Several examples of innovations that have been implemented by the UIN Jakarta Social Trust Fund were also presented, including:

Use of QRIS and crowdfunding platforms to facilitate donations.
Charity Store, as a form of donation of used goods that are suitable for use, where all profits are allocated to scholarship programs.
Empowerment House, such as productive waqf villas managed through technology-based applications such as Airbnb.
The students seemed enthusiastic, especially during the discussion on the potential of sharia fintech in supporting financial inclusion based on zakat and waqf. They were invited to think critically and creatively to create philanthropic programs that are relevant to the needs of modern society.

The event was closed with the hope that students would be able to apply the knowledge they gained in developing innovative zakat and waqf programs in the future. "Students of Da'wah Management are expected to be pioneers in utilizing technology to empower the community through Islamic philanthropy," concluded Prof. Amelia.

This guest lecturer activity not only broadens students' horizons but also provides inspiration to continue to innovate in managing Islamic philanthropy in accordance with current developments. (A.H)