UNAIR NEWS – Aiming to foster spaces of tolerance and humanity, the Religious Affairs Department of the Student Executive Board (BEM) of the Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) Faculty of Law (FH) once again held its community service program, Bakti Cendekia Vol. 2. The initiative took place on Monday (Dec. 1, 2025) at Bhakti Luhur Orphanage and Nursing Home in Sidoarjo. Carrying the theme Together in Grace, the event served both as a Christmas celebration and an interfaith gathering for students and the children at the home. It also sought to strengthen values of tolerance, empathy, and diversity within the FH UNAIR environment.
Bringing inclusive Christmas spirit
Bhakti Luhur was chosen to ensure more equitable distribution of support across different faith-based communities, following the first installment, which was held at an Islamic-based foundation. This time, around 40 children with special needs and their caregivers participated in the activities. Project officer Milhan Aulia Afandi emphasized that the event aimed to create an inclusive Christmas atmosphere. “We want every child to feel the same warmth, regardless of their religion. This is our small step in nurturing a spirit of tolerance,” Afandi said.
The program began with opening remarks, followed by a spiritual session led by Devin Manek. The children sang together and introduced themselves with name tags to build a sense of connection. Decorating the Christmas tree became one of the highlights, as each child wrote down a wish or aspiration on a hanging note and placed it on the tree. “Watching them write their dreams was truly moving. It reminded us that diversity is something that brings us closer,” Afandi said.
Enthusiastic participation
The children also took part in gypsum painting, choosing Christmas-themed figures such as Santa Claus, Christmas trees, holiday hats, and snowmen. The activity served as a creative outlet and allowed organizers to engage with the children on a more personal level. Their excitement grew during the hand-painting session, where they placed colorful handprints on a banner as a symbol of togetherness.
The event concluded with the presentation of certificates to the orphanage and the distribution of donations collected throughout the previous month. The handover underscored the commitment of the Religious Affairs Department of BEM FH UNAIR to sustaining its community initiatives and maintaining strong relationships with social institutions.
Afandi expressed hope that the program’s values would continue to resonate beyond the event. He stressed that Bakti Cendekia was not only a charitable effort but also a learning experience for students.
“I hope Bakti Cendekia doesn’t end with today’s activities. What matters most is that we take home the message that differences in religion, ethnicity, and abilities should never weaken our sense of solidarity,” he said.
Through Bakti Cendekia Vol. 2, the Religious Affairs Department of BEM FH UNAIR reaffirmed that community service is not solely about offering assistance, but also about nurturing humanity and strengthening tolerance as the foundation of shared community life.
Author: Muhammad Afriza Atarizki
Editor: Yulia Rohmawati
