MEDAN | INDATANEWS.COM - Medan Mayor Rico Tri Putra Bayu Waas has emphasized the crucial role of religious-based educational foundations in shaping an ethical, competitive, and resilient younger generation. He made the statement during an audience with the Yayasan Abdi Sabda at the Medan Mayor's official residence on Thursday, April 30, 2026.
Rico underlined that education should not be limited to academic achievement alone, but must also instill moral, spiritual, and practical life values to shape students' personalities from an early stage.
Religious Education as the Foundation of Character Development
Read Also: Medan TP PKK Promotes Exclusive Breastfeeding to Prevent Stunting The mayor stated that religious-based educational institutions play a strategic role in building a strong moral foundation for young people. According to him, religious values and formal education must go hand in hand to produce a generation that is not only intellectually capable but also ethically grounded.
"The most important aspect is how this foundation conveys both faith-based values and education. We hope educational institutions continue to make a positive contribution to society," Rico said, accompanied by several officials from the Medan municipal government.
Strengthening Synergy Between Government and Education Institutions
Rico also stressed the importance of close collaboration between the government and educational institutions. Such synergy, he noted, is essential in nurturing a generation that is both intellectually strong and morally responsible.
Read Also: Rico Waas Calls for Fair Grab Expansion in Medan He further expressed hope that Yayasan Abdi Sabda would continue to grow and expand its educational services for the people of Medan.
Over Five Decades of Educational and Community Service
Foundation chairman Nabari Ginting explained that the meeting also served as a friendly dialogue, highlighting the foundation's long-standing contribution over more than 50 years.
Currently, the foundation operates a theological college with around 500 students. Beyond academic programs, it also conducts seminars and religious lectures aimed at strengthening community values and contributing to social development. (IDNC)
Read Also: Medan Secures Two National Awards, Mayor Rico Waas Highlights Collective Achievement REPORTER: Teguh Angga Aditia Panjaitan | EDITOR: Fik Sagala