“A research team from the Department of Anthropology UGM, led by Prof. Dr. Setiadi, M.Si., during a visit to Airlangga University as part of the ‘EQUITY by Subject’ research project.”

Since February 2026, the research team from the Department of Anthropology, led by Prof. Dr. Setiadi and Dr. Sita Hidayah, assisted by Sekar Alifah Ramadhanti and Muhammad Syukur Shidiq as student assistants participating in the ‘EQUITY by Subject’ research project, visited three universities offering anthropology programs, including Airlangga University, Brawijaya University, and Udayana University. This research focuses on three main topics: the role of anthropology in addressing global crises, graduate career readiness, and institutional evaluation to strengthen interdisciplinary collaboration.

The purpose of these visits was to explore best practices, institutional development strategies, academic governance, curriculum enhancement, research networks, and the contribution of anthropology to supporting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4: Quality Education, 10: Reduced Inequalities, 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions, and 17: Partnerships for the Goals. Each visit included academic discussions, exchanges of experiences regarding the management of academic programs, research, and community service, and discussions on the challenges and opportunities for the development of anthropology in the global and digital era.

The implementation of these visits serves as a concrete manifestation of support for strengthening inter-institutional collaboration networks in the fields of education, research, and community development, and for documenting innovative practices that advance the implementation of the SDGs through an anthropological approach. The series of visits and comparative studies to the three institutions marks the first step toward initiating discussions on the future of anthropology through the framework of Future Studies and its contribution to achieving sustainable development. The future studies approach aims to shift from linear predictions to an exploratory approach to respond to changes in both the teaching and application of anthropology moving forward.

This research aims to formulate new possibilities (preferable futures) in which anthropology education becomes more adaptive, interdisciplinary, and capable of making tangible contributions to humanizing the future. The long-term hope for the field of anthropology is that it will transform from a passive observer into a decision-maker offering sustainable solutions.

As part of Universitas Gadjah Mada’s commitment to elevating higher education quality to international standards, this strategic initiative receives financial support from the EQUITY scheme. This step reflects the commitment of State Universities with Legal Entity Status (PTN-BH) to formulate policies that are more inclusive and resilient.

Author: Sekar Alifah Ramadhanti
Photo: Muhammad Syukur Shidiq
Editor: Okky Chandra Baskoro

Thursday, February 24th, 2026, marks the graduation day for ten students from the English Department. Those graduating students are Afra Sausan Putri, S.S., Cecilia Ade Natasya, S.S., Jardin Urbania Basundoro, S.S., Shimping Fitriana Dwi Fatmawati S.S., Saidatunnisa, S.S., Khairunisa Diva Dijah Adji, S.S., Maura Thirza Azzahra, S.S., Safira Dwihapsari Pratiwi, S.S., Florinesya Zahwa Raihania, S.S., and Yosafira Alma Kartika, S.S. The graduation ceremony took place in Grha Sabha Pramana, Universitas Gadjah Mada, before the English Department graduates moved to Poerbatjarakra building in Fakultas Ilmu Budaya (FIB) to attend the Mangayubagya ceremony. 

After the Mangayubagya ceremony, two English Department graduates, Maura and Florinesya, are pleased to share a glimpse of their college experiences and emotions amidst the moment that marks the turning point of their lives. Maura stated that she is relieved now that she has finally concluded her journey in college, yet she couldn’t shake the bittersweet feelings that enveloped her. “Because we’re going to be separated from our college friends—but at least it’s over,” she said. 

For Florinesya herself, gratitude and delight took hold of her on this special day. She explained that witnessing a large number of people who celebrate their graduation today makes her feel grateful to be part of those graduates. Florinesya also mentioned that her journey was a tough one, but she is deeply thankful for having met a lot of supportive people in the English Department. “The learning environment is also very pleasant; the people are very helpful—even though it’s full of ups and downs,” she admitted. 

Revisiting her memories of college, the biggest struggle for Florinesya was to deal with her uptight schedule, especially balancing between academic and organization activities. “Sometimes I feel like I can’t keep up with my classmate, whose progress is far ahead of me, since I also have to focus on events outside class,” she confessed. Maura, too, mentioned academics as the biggest challenge for her, “In order to keep up [in class], I had to study harder.”

Nevertheless, a lot of happy memories filled their college experience. Maura mentioned that friendship is the one thing that rendered her experience happy. “Especially in FIB, the environment is very tolerant. I think we can be ourselves here without being judged by others.” As for Florinesya, she mentioned English Days, the Dies Natalis of the English Department, as the event that left quite an impression on her during college days. “Because I was the head of English Days two years ago, and I found many helpful people during that,” she recalled. 

In writing their final thesis as a graduation requirement, both Florinesya and Maura are driven by their interest in a specific literature field. Maura shared that her thesis, The Subversive Child and Imaginative Power: Challenging Authority in Salman Rushdie’s Haroun and the Sea of Stories, stems from her particular interest in children’s literature. Florinesya also admits to enjoying the topic of her thesis, Mapping the Crisis of Witnessing: A Dialectic Vicarious Trauma Analysis of the Contradictory Narrative in Colleen Hoover’s Verity. She then revealed an impressive fact: it took her only three weeks to finish her thesis. 

As college has ended and they’re preparing to take the next step in their lives, Maura and Florinesya shared the same plan for the future. Both of them are planning to further their education in graduate school. “I like studying, so while my passion to learn is still there, I want to take a master’s program immediately,” Flo confessed. As for Maura, she planned to gain job experience first while looking for a master’s scholarship abroad. 

In whatever path they take, we hope the English Department graduates can flourish and thrive in their own way. Here’s to a bright future. Congratulations!

Penulis: Gulma Zahra Auradatu

Typing Javanese script on digital devices is often not as easy as imagined. Instead of displaying the expected letters, the screen often displays a row of blank squares or tofu, a sign that the font is not legible. This problem is not isolated. In addition to font limitations, the differences in typing systems between the Latin alphabet and Javanese script also make it difficult for users to adapt. Furthermore, keyboard layouts vary across operating systems, from Windows to Macintosh to Android. This directly complicates the use and preservation of Javanese script, especially in the digital realm.

A number of Javanese script fonts are already available and can be used freely, such as NyK Ngayogyan and NyK Ngayogyan Jejeg, developed by the Yogyakarta Special Region Cultural Office. However, the problems don’t stop at visual appearance. Without a uniform keyboard system, users continue to face obstacles in their daily typing practices.

This situation prompted the development of a Javanese script keyboard system based on the Indonesian script keyboard (SNI 9048). This system was designed with reference to the Serat Wulangreh manuscript as a cultural basis, while also being adapted to the needs of use on various digital devices. Through this standardization, it is hoped that uniformity in typing Javanese script will be achieved, eliminating the need for users to adapt to different systems.

This keyboard system is now available for various devices and is freely accessible to the public. Users can download and install it according to their operating system, whether Windows, Macintosh, or Android. The Javanese script keyboard system can be downloaded from https://wongsayuk.webnode.page/my-work/ or https://wongsaayuk.webnode.page by selecting the download menu. On the page, there is a “Javanese Aksara Keyboard” section, then select the SNI Nataksara system in various formats depending on the device: .exe file for Windows, .dmg file for Macintosh, and .apk file for Android.

After downloading and installing, users are advised to restart their device if the system is not immediately usable. An installation guide (pitoedoeh) is also provided to facilitate the installation process and ensure optimal system use.

Once the system is installed, understanding the keyboard layout is the next important step. Users need to understand the differences between the SNI 9048-based system and the device’s native system, particularly on Windows devices. These differences can be seen in the image below.

The implementation of this standardized keyboard system is a crucial step in addressing the various technical challenges users have faced. Furthermore, the presence of Javanese script in the digital space serves not only as a visual element but also as part of efforts to maintain cultural continuity amidst technological advancements.

Ultimately, preserving Javanese script is not simply a matter of maintaining it; it also requires the courage to develop and adapt it to the times. Continuous support from various parties is key to ensuring that Javanese script not only remains alive but also remains present and empowered within the ever-changing digital ecosystem.

Author : Haryo Untoro

Editor : Haryo Untoro

Bibliography

Prasaja, S.A. (t.t.) Papan Tombol Aksara Djawa Versi SNI 9048. Wongsayuk. https://wongsayuk.webnode.page/my-work/

Prasaja, S.A. (t.t.) Papan Tombol Aksara Djawa Versi Windows. Wongsayuk. https://wongsayuk.webnode.page/my-work/

Yogyakarta, June 16, 2026 – The Arabic Literature Student Association of Universitas Gadjah Mada (IKMASA UGM) successfully organized SAMBUT: “IKMASA Menyambut” in collaboration with the West Asian Family Association of Universitas Indonesia (IKABA UI). Held at the Poerbatjaraka Auditorium, Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada, the event served as a platform for fostering friendship and strengthening relationships among Arabic Literature students from both universities. The program commenced with welcoming remarks from the faculty advisors of IKMASA UGM and IKABA UI, who emphasized the importance of collaboration and maintaining strong inter-institutional relationships. They highlighted the value of building academic networks and encouraging future cooperation between student organizations.

The event continued with a cabinet-sharing session led by the presidents of IKMASA UGM and IKABA UI. During the session, both organizations exchanged insights on their work programs, organizational culture, and leadership strategies. This discussion provided participants with an opportunity to learn from one another’s experiences and organizational practices. Following the sharing session, participants took part in a campus tour around Universitas Gadjah Mada. The activity introduced IKABA UI members to the UGM campus environment while also fostering closer connections among participants. As part of the tour, a group photo session was held at the iconic Balairung UGM as a symbol of friendship and a memorable keepsake of the gathering between IKMASA UGM and IKABA UI. The program then proceeded with a series of Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) involving divisions and departments from both organizations. These discussions provided a space for participants to exchange experiences, share best practices, and discuss organizational management systems within their respective student associations. Overall, the event was conducted smoothly in a warm and enthusiastic atmosphere. Through SAMBUT 2026, both organizations strengthened their ties and reaffirmed their commitment to fostering collaboration, mutual learning, and long-term partnerships among Arabic Literature students across universities.

Author : Ismail

The Faculty of Cultural Sciences at Universitas Gadjah Mada (FIB UGM) held the graduation ceremony for undergraduate and applied undergraduate programs for Period III of the 2025/2026 Academic Year. In this period, the Undergraduate Program in Javanese Language, Literature, and Culture graduated 11 students. In his remarks, the Dean of FIB UGM, Prof. Dr. Setiadi, S.Sos., M.Hum., stated that the majority of students with the highest grade point averages (GPA) came from the Arabic Literature Program. Nevertheless, there was one female student from the Undergraduate Program in Javanese Language, Literature, and Culture who succeeded in achieving the highest GPA at this graduation ceremony. The student was Novia Hikmatul Mubarokah with a GPA of 3.91. This achievement became a source of pride as well as an inspiration for students, especially within the Undergraduate Program in Javanese Language, Literature, and Culture.

On May 26, 2026, an online interview was conducted with Novia regarding her academic journey. In achieving the high GPA, Novia revealed that she always tried to actively learn from various sources. “Learning is not merely from textbooks, but from various sources. In addition, exchanging ideas with friends from different academic years, lecturers, and even people outside the study program is also necessary to broaden our insights,” she explained. According to her, such a learning method makes the learning process feel not merely like an obligation, but rather a space to grow and develop.

Not only active in academics, Novia was also involved in various organizational activities and part-time work. She admitted to being active in several student organizations and working at Arnawa journal publishing as an editorial staff member. “I am also active in various organizations and work part-time at Arnawa journal publishing as an editorial staff member,” she said.

Behind her academic achievement, Novia also faced various challenges during her years of study. She stated that the first and fourth semesters were the most difficult periods in her studies.  “The first semester was a time for me to adapt, especially because my background was not closely related to exposure to Javanese cultural knowledge. This was what motivated me to put in extra effort. Then, the fourth semester or second year became a busy year with a denser class schedule, because there were compulsory university courses and I also became part of the Daily Executive Board of the Student Association of the Undergraduate Program in Javanese Language, Literature, and Culture (HMJ Kamastawa),” she explained. However, from the various challenges, Novia felt that her time management skills became increasingly well honed.

In her undergraduate studies, Novia took a concentration in philology, a field of study that examines the language, culture, and history of a nation through ancient manuscripts. Interestingly, she chose a privately owned or non-institutional manuscript collection as the object of her research, rather than collections from libraries or certain institutions. “I chose the Layang Ambiya manuscript from a non-institutional collection as my research object. This is interesting because of the massive ‘Ambiya’ corpus in Javanese literature, while research on the manuscript is still limited. The stories contained in the Ambiya manuscript are very interesting to study further because they are rich in insights into Islam according to the Javanese people of that time,” she revealed.

When asked about her feelings after successfully achieving the highest GPA, Novia admitted that she felt proud and grateful for the results she obtained. For her, the achievement could not be separated from her family’s support. “My greatest motivation is to make my family proud because they have trusted me to pursue education away from home. Even though I have achieved the best result, there is still a feeling that I should not be easily satisfied because there will be many things that need to be learned,” she said. According to her, GPA is only one provision for moving on to the next stage of life.

At the end of the interview, Novia also conveyed a message for students of the Undergraduate Program in Javanese Language, Literature, and Culture to continue enjoying the process during their studies. She also emphasized the importance of not hesitating to ask for help when experiencing difficulties. “Consult your academic advisor and/or thesis supervisor if you feel you need a discussion partner. Besides that, do not hesitate to ask your friends for help. They will be very helpful,” was her message.

In particular, Novia also gave a message to students pursuing the field of philology, especially those researching non-institutional manuscript collections. “In my opinion, when conducting research on manuscripts from non-institutional collections, we need to ask the owners a lot about their knowledge of the manuscript, not merely ask for permission to conduct research. This is to understand the role of the manuscript in the life of the community. Such efforts are important to preserve the values contained in the manuscript text,” she added.

Novia Hikmatul Mubarokah’s journey during her studies in the Undergraduate Program in Javanese Language, Literature, and Culture shows that every process has its own challenges and stories. Amid academic activities, organizations, and part-time work, she continued trying to carry out everything diligently and enthusiastically. The highest GPA she achieved was not merely a number, but the result of a long process, the support of those closest to her, and the willingness to keep learning. It is hoped that Novia’s story can become an encouragement for other students to continue trusting the process they are going through and not be afraid to keep developing.

Author : Haryo Untoro
Editor : Haryo Untoro