Korean Language and Culture Program Study, Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada, in collaboration with Chung-Ang University (CAU), South Korea, organized a cultural exchange program titled CAUGM 2026. The program was held from January 20–29, 2026, at the Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada.

CAUGM 2026 served as a platform for cross-cultural and language learning, emphasizing the exchange of knowledge, practices, and cultural understanding between Indonesian and South Korean students.

The CAUGM 2026 series began with an Opening Ceremony held on January 21, 2026. On this occasion, delegations from Chung-Ang University and Universitas Gadjah Mada presented cultural performances from their respective countries as an introduction to the cultural exchange activities that would take place throughout the program.

During the Opening Ceremony, Indonesian culture presented by students of the Korean Language and Culture Program Study of UGM included Angklung musical performance, Indonesia Menari, Sajojo Dance, Limpapeh Dance, and the martial art Silat. Meanwhile, the Chung-Ang University delegation showcased various aspects of Korean culture, including Taekwondo, K-pop Dance, K-pop Singing, Pansori, 응원단 (cheerleading), and 풍물 (traditional Korean music).

In addition to cultural exchange, the CAUGM 2026 program also featured language exchange activities. Students from the Korean Language and Culture Program of UGM taught Indonesian to Chung-Ang University students, and vice versa. Language learning was conducted based on class levels: 초급반 (Beginner Class), 중급반 (Intermediate Class), and 고급반 (Advanced Class). The lessons were delivered interactively through daily communication practice, peer mentoring, games, and other classroom activities. Through these interactive methods, participants were able to learn the language along with its cultural context in an engaging and enjoyable way.

CAUGM 2026 also provided an opportunity for the general public to experience the cultural exchange through the Korean Festival held on January 24, 2026. In this event, visitors could participate in various cultural activities, including tasting authentic Korean dishes prepared live by Chung-Ang University students. Through this festival, the public was invited to explore Korean culture through culinary experiences and direct interaction with Korean students.

The CAUGM 2026 series concluded with a Closing Ceremony held on January 29, 2026. During this session, the results of the cultural and language exchange were presented, where Indonesian students performed Korean cultural elements they had learned, while Chung-Ang University students presented Indonesian culture.

The performances took place in a warm and lively atmosphere, with students from both UGM and CAU enjoying each presentation, supporting one another, and showing great enthusiasm. This interaction reflected closeness, togetherness, and the success of the cultural and language exchange process experienced throughout CAUGM 2026.

Through the implementation of CAUGM 2026, the Korean Language and Culture Program of UGM hopes that this program will enhance participants’ language competence, strengthen cross-cultural understanding, and foster closer international cooperation between Universitas Gadjah Mada and Chung-Ang University in the fields of education and cultural diplomacy.

Author: Eunike Serafia & Aura Adiba

Another international achievement has been secured by a student of the Faculty of Cultural Sciences. M Deni Maulana, a student of the Indonesian Language and Literature Study Program, won First Place at the Korean Culture International Poetry Contest Jeonbuk 3 held in Jeonju, South Korea, on November 28–29, 2025.

The international Korean poetry recitation competition brought together 48 participants from 16 countries, representing diverse academic and cultural backgrounds. The event was organized by the Jeonbuk Foreign Language Support Volunteer Association in collaboration with the Jeonju Jeonbuk City Government and the Department of Culture and Tourism. It aimed to introduce Korean literature to a global audience while strengthening cultural exchange through poetry.

Deni Maulana’s achievement is particularly noteworthy as it was accomplished while he was participating in a Student Exchange Double Major program at Jeonbuk National University under the Global Korean Scholarship Outstanding Student scheme. In the competition, Deni performed the Korean poem 빈방 (Empty Room) by Kim Jae-jin, a reflective work that demands emotional sensitivity and strong proficiency in the Korean language.

The competition consisted of rigorous selection and evaluation stages conducted by a panel of professional judges. Assessment criteria included accuracy of Korean pronunciation, mastery of intonation, expressive delivery, and depth of understanding of the poem’s meaning. Through an expressive yet controlled performance, Deni was considered successful in conveying the poem’s message to a cross-cultural audience.

Based on the judges’ final evaluation, First Place was awarded to M Deni Maulana from Indonesia. Second Place went to Sanya Koirala from Nepal, while Third Place was earned by Kato Minenhle from South Africa. The organizers stated that the finalists’ performances reflected a strong appreciation among the younger international generation for Korean literature.

This accomplishment represents not only a personal milestone for Deni but also highlights the active role of Indonesian students in fostering cultural dialogue at the global level. Through literature as a medium of expression, student participation in international forums such as this reinforces the values of mutual understanding, diversity, and international cooperation, which are essential to building an inclusive and sustainable future.

Source: M. Deni Maulana
[Public Relations of FIB UGM, Candra Solihin]

The Master’s Program in Literature, Faculty of Cultural Sciences (FIB), Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), recorded a notable academic achievement at the Postgraduate Graduation Ceremony for Period II of the 2025/2026 Academic Year, held in Yogyakarta on Tuesday (January 21, 2026). One of its graduates, Iftinan Rose Putri Safana, earned the distinction of fastest graduate, completing her studies in 1 year, 8 months, and 8 days.

The postgraduate graduation ceremony of the Faculty of Cultural Sciences this period conferred degrees upon 46 graduates, consisting of 38 master’s graduates and 8 doctoral graduates. Of the total master’s graduates, 21 received the cum laude distinction, with an average Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.77.

Iftinan’s achievement as the fastest graduate reflects academic consistency, careful study planning, and the effectiveness of the learning process and academic supervision within the Master’s Program in Literature. Completing a master’s degree in less than two years demonstrates that postgraduate education can be pursued optimally without compromising academic quality.

In her remarks at the Mangayubagya (farewell and appreciation) ceremony for graduates of the Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Vice Dean of FIB UGM, Dr. Nur Saktiningrum, S.S., M.Hum., emphasized the vital role of education in shaping individuals who are critical and socially responsible. She cited Paulo Freire’s thought that the task of education is to form people who will later become agents of change.

“Education does not change the world. Education changes people. People change the world. Education at the Faculty of Cultural Sciences, including in the Master’s Program in Literature, is directed toward shaping graduates who possess intellectual sensitivity and a commitment to humanitarian values,” she said.

Academic excellence at the master’s level was also demonstrated by the highest GPA achievement, attained by Hanina Naura Fadila, a graduate of the Anthropology Study Program, with a GPA of 3.93. In her address as the representative of master’s students, Hanina invited graduates to view their academic work as a form of intellectual responsibility.

The achievements of the Master’s Program in Literature graduates at this graduation ceremony align with UGM’s commitment to supporting quality education, through the provision of excellent, reflective postgraduate education oriented toward holistic human development.

Author: Khotibul Umam

Yogyakarta, January 24, 2026 — The Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada (FIB UGM), hosted the 2026 The 1st CAUGM Korean Festival, a cultural event that offered the general public a hands-on experience of Korean culture. The festival was held on Friday (January 24) at the Margono Corridor, FIB UGM, and was open to anyone with an interest in Korea.

Korean Festival 2026 was a collaborative initiative between students of Universitas Gadjah Mada and Chung-Ang University (CAU), South Korea. The event aimed to strengthen cross-national cultural relations while serving as a platform for cultural exchange between Indonesia and Korea through an educational and entertaining approach.

A wide range of programs was featured during the festival, including Taste Korean Cuisines, which allowed visitors to sample Korean traditional foods in limited portions, as well as cultural experience booths that offered direct exposure to Korean culture. Visitors had the opportunity to try on Hanbok, traditional Korean attire, and to learn about traditional Korean musical instruments through interactive booths provided at the venue.

In addition, the event was enlivened by special performances from UGM and CAU students, as well as a Random Play Dance session that was open to visitors and became a major attraction, particularly for fans of Korean pop culture. The entire series of events began at 10:00 a.m. (WIB) and was open to the public without any mandatory registration.

The implementation of Korean Festival 2026 aligns with efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 on Quality Education through the provision of cross-cultural learning spaces beyond the classroom, and SDG 17 on Partnerships for the Goals through international collaboration between educational institutions in Indonesia and South Korea. The festival also reflects the spirit of SDG 11, which focuses on building inclusive communities by providing safe and open public spaces for cultural interaction.

Through Korean Festival 2026, FIB UGM reaffirmed its commitment as an academic space that supports cultural diplomacy, global exchange, and the strengthening of cross-cultural understanding among students and the wider community.

[Public Relations of FIB UGM, Alma Syahwalani]

Thursday, February 29, 2026 – ICESCO has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening linguistic and educational policies by hosting an international forum titled “التخطيط اللغوي والتخطيط التربوية” (Language and Educational Planning). The event was held virtually via Zoom, drawing participants from across the globe.

The forum brought together a diverse group of academics, educators, researchers, and students from Indonesia, Morocco, Uzbekistan, and several other nations. It served as a collaborative platform to explore the nuances of language and educational strategy. During the session, keynote speaker Dr. Ahmed Al-Rahban shared profound insights into the symbiotic relationship between linguistic policy and formal education systems.

Language planning was highlighted not merely as a tool for preserving national and native languages, but as a cornerstone of sustainable educational strategies. The discussion underscored how linguistic policies directly influence curriculum development, teaching quality, and the formation of cultural identity in an increasingly globalized world. Through interactive dialogues, participants exchanged experiences and best practices tailored to the unique educational landscapes of their respective countries.

The virtual nature of the event facilitated a broad and inclusive cross-border exchange. Despite the digital format, the enthusiasm of the attendees was evident through the dynamic Q&A sessions and active discussions that took place throughout the program.

Through this initiative, ICESCO aims to spark strategic ideas and insights that contribute to the refinement of language and education policies worldwide. This forum is part of ICESCO’s ongoing efforts to bolster international cooperation in the fields of education, linguistics, and culture.

Author: Indana Zulfa Maulida