Yogyakarta, March 3, 2026  – The Rector of Universitas Gadjah Mada, Ova Emilia, encouraged the emergence of various innovations and new leaps in the development of humanities scholarship during her remarks at the 80th Dies Natalis celebration of the Faculty of Cultural Sciences of Universitas Gadjah Mada (FIB UGM). The eight-decade milestone of the faculty was seen as an important moment to reflect on past achievements while strengthening the contribution of the humanities to the development of civilization.

In her speech, Prof. Ova Emilia expressed pride in the faculty progress report presented by Setiadi. She emphasized that the Dies Natalis celebration is not merely a commemoration of the institution’s age, but also an opportunity to remember the struggles of the founders and predecessors who laid a strong foundation for the development of FIB UGM.

“Eighty years is a mature age, yet at the same time it demands agility to continuously adapt and innovate,” she stated.

According to her, the various achievements attained by FIB UGM demonstrate continuous progress, both nationally and internationally. The academic community, she added, bears the responsibility to continuously produce breakthroughs and new leaps so that the faculty can not only survive but also thrive in facing future challenges.

Since its establishment in 1946, FIB UGM has demonstrated resilience through its ability to adapt and innovate amid changing times. This strength is reflected in the contributions of its alumni as well as numerous scholarly works and innovations that have produced tangible impacts on society.

Prof. Ova Emilia likened FIB UGM to a teak tree that grows stronger as it ages. The older a teak tree becomes, the stronger and higher the quality of its wood. This analogy reflects the maturity and resilience of the faculty in carrying out its role as an institution for humanities education.

She also highlighted several academic achievements attained by the faculty, including international recognition received by its lecturers and the success of several study programs that rank among the top three nationally. These accomplishments, she noted, serve as both pride and motivation to further enhance the quality of education and research.

In addition, the improvement of research performance within the faculty has also drawn attention. Despite relatively limited internal budget allocations, the number of research projects produced remains high due to funding support from various national and international partners. This, she explained, reflects strong public trust in the university.

“The substantial funding obtained from external partners for the implementation of the tridharma activities reflects public trust in the university,” she explained.

She also underscored the strong tradition of community engagement within UGM, which receives broad support from various partners. Every community service initiative carried out by the university, she noted, consistently receives positive responses from stakeholders who wish to contribute.

On this occasion, Prof. Ova Emilia expressed her gratitude to the founders, predecessors, professors, academic community members, educational staff, alumni, and partners who have significantly contributed to building and advancing FIB UGM to its current achievements. She hopes that the values of scholarship and humanity cultivated on campus will continue to grow and contribute positively to national development.

The 80th Dies Natalis celebration of FIB UGM also reflects the faculty’s commitment to supporting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Strengthening humanities education aligns with SDG 4 (Quality Education) through the development of inclusive and high-quality higher education. Furthermore, research collaborations with various national and international partners support SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), while innovations in research and knowledge development contribute to SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure).

Closing her remarks, Prof. Ova Emilia delivered a pantun as an expression of appreciation and hope for the faculty’s future:

Attending a celebration by riding a vehicle,

Wearing a dark red kebaya,

Eight decades mark a time of maturity,

May the Faculty of Cultural Sciences always prosper.

Happy Anniversary, FIB UGM!

[Public Relations of FIB UGM, Alma Syahwalani]

Yogyakarta, March 3, 2026 – The Faculty of Cultural Sciences (FIB) Universitas Gadjah Mada presented awards to five outstanding members of its academic community during the 80th Anniversary (Dies Natalis) celebration at the FIB UGM Poerbatjaraka Auditorium. This initiative serves as an institutional appreciation for the dedication and achievements of both lecturers and educational staff in advancing science, education, and community development.

In the outstanding lecturer category, FIB UGM presented an award to Dr. Elan Ardri Lazuardi, S.Ant., M.A., from the Anthropology Study Program. Dr. Lazuardi possesses specialized expertise in medical anthropology and public health services. Throughout his career, he has received various prestigious academic recognitions. These include the High-Quality Scientific Article Award in Health and Medicine from the Ministry of Research and Technology in 2020, as well as the Dean’s Award for Outstanding PhD Theses from the University of New South Wales in the same year. Previously, he earned the Early Career Research Award for the best oral presentation category from the Australian Society for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, and Sexual Health Medicine in 2018.

The next recipient of the outstanding lecturer award is Dr. Raden Rucitarahma Ristiawan, S.Par., M.Sc., from the Tourism Study Program. This tourism and cultural landscape expert earned a doctorate in Cultural Geography from Wageningen University, the Netherlands, in 2024. His dissertation discusses the commodification of landscapes in the development of geopark tourism in Indonesia. Dr. Ristiawan has consistently researched community-based tourism practices from his undergraduate studies at UGM to his master’s program at the University of Glasgow, United Kingdom, in 2017.

The third lecturer to receive a similar award is Wildan Sena Utama, S.S., M.A., Ph.D., from the History Study Program. This historian focuses on modern international and transnational relations between Indonesia and the Afro-Asian world in the 20th century. Dr. Utama completed his doctoral education at the University of Bristol in 2023. His dissertation highlights the role of Indonesian figures in the Afro-Asian movement during the 1950s and 1960s to demonstrate the importance of South-South solidarity in the history of national independence, anti-imperialist movements, and efforts to build a more decolonial world order.

From the educational staff ranks, FIB UGM appreciated the performance of two staff members who are considered to have made major contributions to the smooth operation of the faculty. Dyah Ayu Retnowati, A.Md., received the outstanding award in the Academic and Student Affairs division. Meanwhile, Tri Iswanto received an award in the General Affairs division for his crucial dedication in supporting the smooth running of administrative services and activities within the faculty.

This appreciation is expected to boost the motivation of the entire academic community to continue innovating and providing the best service in the future. This step aligns with the higher education institution’s commitment to continuously building a high-quality, inclusive, and resilient learning ecosystem to produce human resources capable of bringing a positive impact to the advancement of civilization.

[Public Relations of FIB UGM, Candra Solihin]

Yogyakarta, March 3, 2026 – The Faculty of Cultural Sciences at Universitas Gadjah Mada (FIB UGM) marks its 80th anniversary in 2026. This eight-decade journey serves as a moment of reflection as well as a source of hope to continue contributing to the advancement of the humanities. Carrying the theme “Eight Decades of Building Civilization,” this year’s Dies Natalis celebration reaffirms FIB UGM’s commitment to strengthening the role of the humanities in building a knowledgeable, inclusive, and culturally enriched society.

Reaching the age of 80 symbolizes a long journey marked not only by various academic achievements but also by challenges that have been successfully overcome together by the academic community. Over the past eight decades, FIB UGM has continued to develop as one of the main pillars for the advancement of humanities studies in Indonesia. Numerous important achievements have been attained, ranging from improved rankings in the QS World University Rankings and the EduRank ranking in literature, to outstanding study program accreditations and contributions through publications and news coverage that support the implementation of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4: Quality Education and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.

In terms of educational quality, FIB UGM has demonstrated remarkable achievements. In 2025, out of a total of 21 study programs within FIB UGM, 20 study programs received the “Excellent” (Unggul) accreditation from Badan Akreditasi Nasional Perguruan Tinggi (BAN-PT), while the Master’s Program in American Studies obtained an “Excellent” accreditation from Lembaga Akreditasi Mandiri Sosial Politik Administrasi dan Komunikasi (LAMSPAK). In addition, several study programs have gained international recognition through accreditation by global institutions. A total of 10 undergraduate programs and 2 master’s programs have been accredited by ACQUIN with an Unconditional rating, five undergraduate programs and one master’s program have received international certification from ASEAN University Network – Quality Assurance (AUN-QA), while the French Literature Program and the Master’s Program in Linguistics have obtained accreditation from Foundation for International Business Administration Accreditation (FIBAA) with an Unconditional rating.

FIB UGM’s achievements are also reflected in international rankings. Based on the QS World University Rankings by Subject, the Anthropology, Archaeology, and English Literature programs ranked first nationally, with global positions within the 101–170 and 151–200 ranges worldwide. In addition, the fields of Modern Languages, Arts and Humanities, and Linguistics have also been listed in the QS WUR. Meanwhile, in 2025, EduRank ranked the literature field of FIB UGM first among 68 literature education providers in Indonesia. This achievement is a particular source of pride for the Department of Language and Literature, which serves as a driving force for the development of literary studies within FIB UGM.

The commitment to the internationalization of education continues to be strengthened through various student mobility programs. FIB UGM actively promotes Student Exchange and Fast Track programs to broaden students’ academic experiences. In 2025, a total of 31 students participated in the Fast Track Program for the 2024–2025 period, 28 students joined exchange programs with other universities within Indonesia, 16 students took part in the Merdeka Student Exchange Program 2025–2026, and 64 students participated in International Student Exchange programs during the 2024–2026 period.

Through these achievements, FIB UGM reaffirms its commitment to continuously strengthening the quality of education, research, and community service. The eight-decade journey is expected to serve as a strong foundation for FIB UGM to continue contributing to the development of civilization through the humanities, while also supporting the global development agenda through the implementation of SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure) in strengthening research, and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through international academic collaboration.

[Public Relations of FIB UGM, Alma Syahwalani]

Yogyakarta, March 3, 2026 – The Dean of the Faculty of Cultural Sciences (FIB) at Universitas Gadjah Mada, Prof. Dr. Setiadi, M.Si., emphasized the importance of strengthening interdisciplinary collaboration and expanding international engagement in the development of humanities scholarship. He delivered the message during the Open Senate Meeting marking the 80th Anniversary of FIB UGM on March 3, 2026, in Yogyakarta.

In his annual report, Prof. Setiadi described the faculty’s 80th anniversary as a moment to reflect on its long journey while looking ahead to future challenges and opportunities. With the theme “Eight Decades of Building Civilization,” the faculty aims to further strengthen its academic contributions at both national and international levels.

“For eighty years, the Faculty of Cultural Sciences at Universitas Gadjah Mada has undergone significant transformation and achieved notable accomplishments as a key pillar in the development of humanities scholarship,” he said.

He noted that the faculty’s achievements are the result of the collective efforts of its academic community, built upon the scholarly foundations laid by earlier generations.

One of the performance indicators highlighted in the report is the number of international students, which reached 150 students, exceeding the target of 100 students or 150 percent of the initial target. According to Prof. Setiadi, this reflects the growing international appeal of FIB UGM.

Research collaboration has also shown significant progress. The number of multidisciplinary research outputs reached 169 research titles, far surpassing the target of 84 projects, or about 201 percent of the target. This achievement indicates a stronger culture of collaborative research across academic disciplines.

In addition, FIB UGM recorded 2,378 news publications related to academic activities and community engagement in 2025, exceeding the target of 1,155 publications.

In terms of academic quality assurance, FIB UGM continues to strengthen the accreditation status of its study programs. Out of 21 study programs, 20 programs have received the highest accreditation status (Unggul) from BAN-PT, while the Master’s Program in American Studies has obtained the same status from LAMSPAK.

Several programs have also gained recognition from international accreditation bodies, including ACQUIN, AUN-QA, and FIBAA, further reinforcing the faculty’s position in global humanities education.

These academic achievements are also reflected in international rankings. The Anthropology, Archaeology, and English Literature programs are ranked first nationally in the QS World University Rankings by Subject, with global rankings in the 101–170 and 151–200 ranges. Meanwhile, EduRank placed FIB UGM’s literature field first in Indonesia among 68 institutions offering literary studies.

Prof. Setiadi also highlighted developments in student performance. Currently, FIB UGM has 4,346 active students, consisting of 3,448 undergraduate students, 672 master’s students, and 226 doctoral students. Academic data shows improvement in student performance, with the average undergraduate GPA increasing from 3.62 to 3.67, while the average study duration decreased from 4.42 years to 4.28 years.

He expressed appreciation for the contributions of lecturers, administrative staff, and students. Over the past four years, FIB students have achieved 23 international awards, 224 national awards, and 48 regional awards.

Concluding his remarks, Prof. Setiadi emphasized the importance of maintaining integrity, solidarity, and academic values within the faculty community.

“In the academic world, which upholds honesty, equality, and integrity, we must continue to nurture a culture of mutual learning, care, and mentorship while strengthening our solidarity as the FIB UGM community,” he said.

As it enters its eighth decade, FIB UGM aims to remain a productive space for the advancement of humanities scholarship and to contribute to the development of civilization through education, research, and community engagement. Such efforts reflect the broader commitment of higher education institutions to advance knowledge, expand global collaboration, and generate meaningful benefits for society.

[Public Relations of FIB UGM, Candra Solihin]

The Student Association of the Department of Javanese Language, Literature, and Culture (HMJ Kamastawa) held a handover ceremony for the 2026/2027 management on Monday (06/23/2026) at Poerbatjaraka Building 203, Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Gadjah Mada University. The event was attended by the HMJ Kamastawa executive board for the 2025/2026 and 2026/2027 periods, as well as faculty representatives from the study program.

Also present at the event were the Head of the Javanese Language, Literature, and Culture Study Program, Dr. Sulistyowati, M.Hum., and the advisor to HMJ Kamastawa, Dr. Rudy Wiratama, S.I.P., M.A. The presence of the study program leaders emphasized the program’s support for the continuity of student organizations.

The event began at 4:15 PM and was hosted by Muhammad Bagus Ulinnuha. The series of activities began with the singing of the Indonesian national anthem and the Gadjah Mada hymn.

In his speech, Dr. Rudy Wiratama, S.I.P., M.A. emphasized the importance of maintaining achievements in a positive manner and building the widest possible network. He also advised the administrators to always apply the values of guidance, compassion, and nurturing, both with fellow administrators, seniors, and alumni.

Meanwhile, Dr. Sulistyowati, M.Hum. reminded the administrators to remain resilient in facing the dynamics and challenges of the organization. She emphasized the importance of coordination with lecturers and maintaining a balance between achievement, physical and mental health, and harmonious communication within the management.

The main procession of the event consisted of the reading and signing of the minutes by the Chair of HMJ for the 2025/2026 period, Dwiyan Teguh Darmawan, followed by the symbolic handover of office by the Head of the Study Program. Next, the inauguration script was read by Dr. Rudy Wiratama, S.I.P., M.A., and the oath of office was led by the Chair of HMJ for the 2026/2027 period, Wreksi Awinanggya Pinandhita.

The event then continued with a symbolic handover of positions to the Kamastawa HMJ management, a message and impressions from the 2025/2026 HMJ period, and a speech from the Chair of the 2026/2027 HMJ period. The series of activities was closed with a group photo session to capture the moment of togetherness.

The handover ceremony for the Kamastawa Student Association for the 2026/2027 period is an important moment for the new board to continue and improve the quality of the organization. It is hoped that the new board will be able to implement flagship programs optimally. Thus, HMJ Kamastawa can continue to play an active role, making positive contributions to nguri-uri ‘preserving’ and ngurip-urip ‘revitalizing’ Javanese culture, as well as maintaining the good reputation of the Javanese Language, Literature, and Culture Study Program. Congratulations and success to the HMJ Kamastawa management for the 2026/2027 period.

Author: Haryo Untoro
Editor: Haryo Untoro