Mindanao State University–General Santos gathered students, faculty, staff, and guests for the Ramadan Symposium and Grand Iftar 2026 held on March 6, 2026, fostering reflection and spiritual growth within the academic community.
The program opened with welcoming remarks from Prof. Jamilnur D. Sarip, Director og Halal Research and Training Center, who greeted the participants and emphasized the importance of strengthening faith and community during the holy month of Ramadan.
In his message, Chancellor Shidik T. Abantas underscored the value of dialogue and understanding in nurturing a culture of respect and spiritual awareness within the University. “May this gathering remind us that faith and unity remain essential in building a compassionate and enlightened academic community,” he shared.
The symposium featured Sheikh Zacaria Candao Tambo, Director of Maqra-al-Alwahiyain and a scholar from the Islamic University of Madinah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, who delivered a lecture titled “Empowering Spiritual Growth: Strategies for Nurturing Faith and Excellence in the Digital Age.” He highlighted opportunities for spiritual growth in today’s digital era, particularly the increased access to knowledge through online platforms and the importance of developing digital Taqwah—mindfulness and discipline in using technology. At the same time, he emphasized the need to remain vigilant against digital temptations such as harmful online content and excessive self-promotion, encouraging participants to practice self-control and purposeful engagement in digital spaces.
As the Adhan was called, attendees gathered for the Grand Iftar, sharing a meal together in the spirit of gratitude and fellowship. Participants also joined in prayer, further strengthening the sense of unity and spiritual reflection during the holy month of Ramadan. The program continued with the presentation of tokens and plaques of appreciation to the guest speaker, followed by a Ramadan trivia segment and the awarding of certificates to participants and organizers.
Through initiatives like the Ramadan Symposium and Grand Iftar, MSU-GenSan continues to cultivate an environment that celebrates diversity and shared learning among its academic community.
