As another academic year unfolds, the UP Institute of Islamic Studies warmly welcomed the new freshmen and continuing students with a brief orientation last June 27, 2006 at the UP IIS Library.  Around 46 students enrolled in the masters program for the first semester of academic year 2006-2007.

Emphasizing the quest for academic excellence, intensive researches and upholding the ideals of the University, Dr. Carmen Abubakar,  the dean of the Institute, challenged the students to strive for excellence and enrichment of the Muslim Filipino identity.  Dean Abubakar stressed the need for promotion of the program and scholarship grants offered in the Institute to those who aspire or seek further and higher studies in Islamic studies.

The assertion strongly encourages students and faculty members to boost the Institute’s status as one of the country’s pioneers in Islamic Studies. 

Faculty members and staff of the Institute were presented as well.  Prof. Jundam and Prof. Matli, both experienced faculty members, imparted  inspirational messages to the students and underlined the significant contribution of the students in uplifting the plight of the Muslim Filipinos. 

 Prof. Julkipli Wadi, the college secretary, elaborated on the nitty-gritty of university rules and regulations, requirements on maintaining or attaining scholarship grants and other pertinent details.  He further affirmed the crucial role of the Institute in asserting the Filipino Muslim identity in the national and academic arenas.  Moreover, Prof. Wadi accentuates the significant responsibility of the Institute in promoting not only academic excellence but also extension programs. 

 The Institute Librarian, Mrs. Romila Diana M. Saguil, gave a detailed presentation of the various library facilities available, the library rules and regulations. 

 Highlighting the importance of social involvement, enhancement of leadership skills and potentials of the students, Prof. Macrina A. Morados, gave a briefing on the role of student organization of the Institute, the Assabiyah.  It shall have its election of new set of officers and a one-day leadership seminar. 

 Another highlight of the program was the awarding of a Certificate of Appreciation to the family and of the late Abraham S. Iribani for their donation of 178 volumes of books to the IIS Library.  Abraham Iribani was the spokesperson of the MNLF during the Peace Process leading to the 1996 Peace Agreement.  He was also appointed as DILG Assistant Secretary.

 Aradelria Belleng, a freshman MA student in the Institute hosted the orientation._

- SEAbdulwahid