Inspiring the Future: Prof. Tien (Dean) and Dr. Maslathif Dwi Purnomo, PhD (Head of the English Ed Master’s Program) Lead Alumni Reunion on Deep Learning in English Education

TBI UINSU Alumni Annual Gathering

Medan, Indonesia – July 1, 2025 – The Master’s Program in English Education at UIN Sumatera Utara held a grand alumni gathering across generations, bringing together educators, alumni, and experts in English education. The event also featured a National Seminar on Education with the theme “Exploring Deep Learning in English Language Teaching”, and a socialization session introducing the Master’s Program in English Education.

The event was held online via Zoom and attracted a large number of participants from various regions. In her welcoming speech, Prof. Dr. Tien Rafida, M.Hum, Dean of The Faculty of Tarbiyah and Teacher Training (FITK) UIN Sumatera Utara, emphasized the importance of strengthening academic ties and future-oriented education.

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This event not only reconnects alumni but also inspires a shared vision for advancing English education through innovation and collaboration. Embracing deep learning in English education means preparing future educators who are not only knowledgeable, but also reflective and adaptive in a changing world.

said Prof. Tien Rafida

Dr. M. Dalimunte, M. Hum, (Vice Dean for Administration and Finance), also delivered a brief but meaningful remark. He expressed his appreciation and delight in seeing the study program actively engage and empower its alumni. According to him, initiatives like this not only strengthen the alumni network but also contribute to the academic and professional growth of the community, especially when supported by impactful activities such as national seminars.

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The keynote speaker, Maslathif Dwi Purnomo, M.Hum., Ph.D, Head of the Master’s Program in English Education at FITK UIN Sumatera Utara, delivered an insightful presentation on the integration of deep learning approaches in English teaching practices. He highlighted how modern pedagogy can be enhanced by leveraging AI, critical thinking, and adaptive learning technologies.

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Deep learning invites us to move beyond memorization and toward meaningful engagement, so students can truly understand, use, and grow with the English language. Deep learning is about fostering deep thinking and meaningful engagement in our learners

Dr. Maslathif stated

In his session, he encouraged educators to rethink traditional pedagogies by integrating project-based learning, inquiry-driven instruction, and formative assessments that promote reflection and real-world application.

“Deep learning is not just a method, but a mindset,” he added. “It demands that we, as educators, foster curiosity, independence, and resilience. In the context of English education, it means creating learning environments where language becomes a tool for understanding, expression, and transformation.”

Dr. Maslathif concluded his session by urging fellow educators and alumni to embrace innovation with heart and vision, reminding participants that to teach students how to think deeply, educators must also teach with depth.

Also attending the event were Dr. Riswan Hadi, M.Pd., Head of the Alumni Association of TBI FITK UINSU, and Dr. Suzatmiko Wijaya, M.Pd. as the session moderator.

This collaborative and academic initiative reflects UIN Sumatera Utara’s ongoing commitment to providing high-quality Islamic and general education, in line with the vision of the Ministry of Religious Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia.

The seminar was free of charge and provided e-certificates for all participants. It ended with a prayer at the end of the session at 4:00 PM (WIB).

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