Language learning has always been a challenge for many individuals, especially those who are trying to learn a second language. A recent public lecture held on Thursday, August 24, 2023, at the Multimedia Room, Margono Building, 2nd floor, Faculty of Cultural Sciences UGM and Zoom from 11:00-12:45 WIB has shed light on the complexities of language learning and the pros and cons of AI in higher education.

Experts in the field, including Professor Shigenoro Wakabayashi and Professor Jun Iio, shared their insights and expertise on the topic.

“Language learning is a complex phenomena, taken place in micro, meso and macro context…”

Professor Wakabayashi emphasized the complexity of language learning and how second language studies have largely ignored it. He delivered a fragment of a sentence during his lecture, highlighting the difficulties faced by language learners, particularly those learning a second language.

On the other hand, Professor Iio discussed the benefits and challenges of using artificial intelligence (AI) in higher education. With the rise of AI development, it is essential to use it wisely and address any issues that may arise. While AI provides benefits, it also presents some challenges that must be overcome.

The lecture was moderated by Hasyim Kurniawan, S.S., M.App.Ling., a lecturer of the English Department at the Faculty of Cultural Sciences UGM. The event attracted a hybrid audience, with in-person attendees and those tuning in remotely via Zoom.

The public lecture provided valuable insights into the complexities of language learning and the potential benefits and challenges of incorporating AI in higher education. As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, the knowledge gained from this lecture can help individuals and educators alike to navigate the complexities of language learning and make informed decisions when it comes to incorporating AI in higher education.

The Faculty of Cultural Sciences of Universitas Gadjah Mada, one of the leading universities in Indonesia, places a high emphasis on preparing its graduates for the ever-evolving world of work. In line with this, the Faculty of Cultural Sciences has designed programmes that are not only academically enriching but also packaged attractively to improve the personal qualities of the graduates, making them stand out in their respective fields.

On Tuesday, 22 August 2023, there were two programmes held at the Faculty of Cultural Sciences UGM, which aimed to provide a platform for prospective graduates to enhance their personal and professional skills. The first programme, organised by the Javanese Literature Study Programme, Faculty of Cultural Sciences, centred on the topic of ‘Personal Branding to Enter the World of Work.’ The resource person for this programme was none other than Giok Kinski, Puteri Indonesia Intelegensia 1 2023, who is also an esteemed alumnus of Universitas Gadjah Mada.

The second programme, held on the same day, aimed to inspire prospective graduates to step out of their comfort zones and take on new challenges in the world of work. The chosen resource person for this programme was none other than Nina Ulfah Nulatutadjie Gaffar, S.S., the Director/CEO of PT Wisata Laut Nusapermai, a foreign investment company that owns Kura-Kura Resort in Karimunjawa. Nina is also a shareholder, as well as Sr. Associate for Land Acquisition and Resettlement Action Plan (LARAP) at PT Idea Cipta Senandika, a legal entity of Indonesia Center for Sustainable Development-ICSD, and Director of PT Reka Samudra Inspirasi, owner of Teroka Nusa brand.

Nina’s presentation was inspiring, as she motivated the prospective graduates of the Faculty of Humanities to pursue their life choices and ambitions, regardless of their educational background. Drawing on her own experiences of building a successful business career in tourism, Nina encouraged the graduates to step out of their comfort zones and seize opportunities that come their way. She emphasised the importance of taking calculated risks and learning from mistakes, as they embark on their professional journeys.

The Faculty of Cultural Sciences has proven its dedication to equipping students with the skills and qualities necessary for success in their careers. The programmes offered are both academically rigorous and designed to cultivate personal growth, setting graduates apart in their fields. The expertise of the resource persons, Giok Kinski and Nina Ulfah Nulatutadjie Gaffar, provided invaluable insights and inspiration for graduates to confidently tackle new challenges.

The Korea University ASEAN Centre (KUAC) delegation, led by Professor Jae Hyeok Shin, the Director of KUAC, recently paid a visit to the Faculty of Cultural Sciences at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) in 16th August 2023. The delegation, which included Professor Jeong-in Suh, Former Korean Ambassador to ASEAN, Professor Jaehoo Park, Chief Administrative Officer, and a journalist from Yonhap News, Mr Kim Ho-Chun, had a seven-day visit to Indonesia and Thailand. During their visit, they gained valuable insights into ASEAN countries and had the opportunity to exchange ideas with students of the Korean Language and Culture Study Programme at FIB UGM.

The KUAC delegation’s visit was not just a mere academic and cultural exchange but also aimed to foster closer ties between Korea and ASEAN countries. To achieve this goal, the delegation attended a series of lectures on Cultural Differences between Indonesia and Korea. Moreover, two representatives from Chung Mong-Koo Foundation, Mr Cho Hyun Jin and Mr Shin Ji Nam, also accompanied the delegation, adding more value to the visit.

Overall, the KUAC delegation’s visit to UGM was a significant milestone in the academic and cultural exchange between the two regions. It is hoped that such visits will continue to take place, leading to more opportunities for collaboration and mutual understanding between Korea and ASEAN countries..

Hyundai Motor Chung Mong-Koo Foundation Scholarships is an opportunity for international students by The KDI School of Public Policy and Management for 2023-2024.

Requirements:

1. This scholarship opportunity is open to all undergraduate students at the Faculty of Cultural Sciences, UGM.
2. Students should be at least in their 5th semester.
3. Interested individuals must submit a study plan for a six-month period at one of our six partner universities
4. Completed the MKWK course, as evidenced by their transcript.
5. Submit a CV in English that includes a recent passport-size photo and the latest grade transcript.
6. Applicants must provide evidence of their proficiency in English, which can be demonstrated through an IELTS, TOEFL, or AcEPT score.
7. (Optional) Understanding basic Korean by providing supporting documents such as a certificate or proof of attending Korean language classes.

University Twinning and Networking (UNITWIN) is a programme established in 1992 at the 26th session of the UNESCO General Conference with the aim of building the capacity of higher education and research institutions through knowledge exchange and sharing.

Two Mahadayas excelled in the programme, with each becoming the top participant in their respective sub-programmes. Bulan Churniati, a 2021 English Literature student, emerged as the best participant in the Digital Entrepreneurship Training sub-programme, while Nasywa Naurah, a 2022 History student, claimed the top spot in the Leadership Training.

Congratulations on your impressive success, Mahadaya!
Your hard work and dedication have truly paid off and you deserve all the recognition that comes with it. Keep up the great work !