Pematang Siantar, North Sumatra, Indonesia – The Adventist church in the Southern Asia-Pacific region (SSD) celebrates a historic milestone in its mission to provide Christ-centered education as Surya Nusantara Adventist College officially transitions into Surya Nusantara Adventist University (SNAU). The Indonesian Ministry of Education granted the institution university status on November 19, 2024, recognizing its commitment to academic excellence and its contribution to the country’s higher education landscape.
This transition marks a significant development for the Adventist church’s global educational mission. Surya Nusantara Adventist University becomes the fifth Adventist university in the Southern Asia-Pacific region and the third in Indonesia, joining Universitas Klabat in Manado and Universitas Advent Indonesia in Bandung in equipping young people with holistic education rooted in faith and service. The move aligns with the church’s ongoing mission to use education as a means to develop leaders who will impact their communities with Christian values and professional excellence.
Dr. Rexon Nainggolan, newly appointed rector of SNAU, expressed gratitude for this achievement, stating, “Our transformation into a university is more than just a structural change; it is a testament to God’s leading in our institution’s journey. We aim to provide education that not only fosters academic success but also prepares young minds to serve with integrity and faith.”
Expanding Opportunities for Academic and Missionary Growth
With its new status, Surya Nusantara Adventist University is broadening its academic programs to accommodate the growing demand for higher education. The university now offers three additional degree programs, bringing the total to seven:
Bachelor of Accountancy
Diploma of Accountancy
Bachelor of Theology
Diploma of Nursing
Bachelor of Computer Science (New)
Bachelor of System Information (New)
Bachelor of Nutrition (New)
The introduction of these programs reflects the institution’s commitment to producing competent professionals in various fields while maintaining a strong focus on service-oriented careers, such as theology and nursing, which directly support the church’s evangelistic and healthcare missions.
A Step Forward for Adventist Education and Community Impact
The university’s transformation is expected to create broader opportunities for students and faculty in research, innovation, and outreach. Community leaders, alumni, and church members have welcomed the change, seeing it as an opportunity to strengthen Adventist education’s impact on Indonesia’s development.
Beyond academic expansion, SNAU remains committed to its spiritual mission. As a university, it aims to not only train future professionals but also empower students to become missionaries in their workplaces, communities, and beyond. The integration of faith into learning remains central, ensuring that graduates leave with a deeper commitment to service and the Gospel.
The university board of directors officially appointed the following administrators on January 22, 2025, to lead this new phase of development:
Rector: Rexon Nainggolan, S.E., M.M., M.Ak., Ph.D., CPA., CA., CFI.
Vice Rector for Academic Affairs: Dr. Sedia Simbolon, MAN
Vice Rector for Finance: Humala Situmorang, S.E., M.M., M.Ak., CPA., CA.
Vice Rector for Student Affairs: Pr. Dr. Joseph H. Sianipar, M.Min., M.B.A.
As Surya Nusantara Adventist University embarks on this new journey, it reaffirms the Adventist church’s commitment to holistic education that nurtures the mind, body, and spirit. With faith as its foundation and excellence as its standard, SNAU is poised to become a beacon of truth, service, and mission-driven education in Indonesia and beyond.
A University with a Purpose
Surya Nusantara Adventist University stands as a testimony to the power of faith and education working hand in hand. As the institution grows, it continues to uphold the Adventist church’s vision of making disciples, strengthening communities, and preparing young people to serve Christ wherever He calls them.