On August 13, 2025, the Institute of Islamic Studies (IIS) at the University of the Philippines Diliman conducted its Student Orientation for the First Semester of Academic Year 2025–2026. The event was held in a hybrid format—via Zoom and onsite at Room 300, Virata Hall, Institute for Small-Scale Industries (ISSI), UP Diliman, Quezon City.
The orientation formally welcomed new, continuing, and returning students. Prof. Julkipli M. Wadi, Dean of UP IIS, underscored that studying at the University is not merely an academic pursuit but also a transformative journey that fosters a balanced, compassionate, respectful, and inclusive understanding of Islam and the Muslim world. He encouraged students to remain open to diverse perspectives and to carry these values beyond the university as they navigate real-world challenges.
Asst. Prof. Darwin J. Absari, College Secretary of IIS, led the program’s information-sharing segment for students in the Master of Arts in Islamic Studies (MAIS) Program. He was joined by representatives from various IIS offices, including the Research, Publication, and Extension Division, and the IIS Library, who provided essential guidance on academic and administrative matters.
In line with UP’s commitment to academic excellence, students were reminded of the importance of upholding academic integrity. Recognizing the growing role of artificial intelligence in higher education, the Institute reinforced its measures to ensure originality and ethical scholarship. Academic papers will continue to undergo screening through Turnitin, which includes similarity and AI-detection tools. This practice aims to strengthen students’ sense of ownership of their work while honing their skills in proper citation and referencing.
The orientation concluded with an open forum, during which students raised questions and concerns that were addressed by Prof. Absari. He assured the participants that the Office of the College Secretary remains committed to supporting them throughout their MAIS journey.
The Student Orientation is an annual institutional activity designed to guide and equip IIS students as they pursue their academic and scholarly endeavors.
