Yogyakarta, 7/8/2025 – The Arabic Study Program at the Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), warmly welcomed its new cohort of students during the vibrant PIONIR Kampung Budaya event held at Soegondo Building, FIB UGM. This event is part of the university’s PIONIR 2025 (Orientation for New Student Learning Success) series, designed to introduce incoming students to the academic and cultural environment of the program.

With great enthusiasm and a strong sense of camaraderie, the Arabic Study Program community greeted the Class of 2025. The agenda included an introduction to the Arabic Study Program, a warm welcome from the program’s lecturers, an overview of the student association Ikmasa, and a video message featuring heartfelt greetings and insights from program alumni.

Through this orientation, new students are expected to gain a foundational understanding of the academic atmosphere, the cultural values embraced by the program, and the spirit of togetherness that defines the Arabic Study Program community at UGM.

Welcome, Arabic Study Program Class of 2025! May this academic journey mark the beginning of your meaningful contribution to society and the world.

Author: Muhammad Ardiansyah

On July 21–24, 2025, Iva Hanani, S.S., M.A., a lecturer in the Korean Language and Culture Program at the Faculty of Cultural Sciences, UGM, and also a teacher at the King Sejong Institute (KSI) in Yogyakarta, had the opportunity to attend the “2025 King Sejong Institute Foundation Korean Language Teachers Conference” held at the Shilla Hotel in Seoul, South Korea.

This annual conference was attended by Korean language instructors from various countries and aimed to improve the quality of Korean language instruction globally. During the training, Ms. Iva participated in various workshop sessions and discussions on teaching Korean as a foreign language.

In addition to academic training, participants were also invited to participate in cultural activities as part of strengthening their understanding of Korean cultural context. One of the interesting activities Ms. Iva participated in was a workshop on making bookmarks (bookmarks) from jagae (자개), a traditional Korean handicraft made from mother-of-pearl, rich in aesthetic and philosophical value.

Participation in this program demonstrates the commitment of the Korean Language and Culture Program at UGM to supporting the development of faculty competencies and expanding international academic networks. It is hoped that this experience will enrich teaching methods and have a positive impact on the learning process in the classroom.

(Sherina Azmi A.)

Yogyakarta, 7/2025 — Two alumni from the Korean Language and Culture Study Program (BKK), Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), have once again made the program proud by earning the prestigious 2025 scholarship from the Indonesia Endowment Fund for Education (LPDP). They are Sekar Arum Anugrah Gusti (Class of 2018) and Asma Azizah (Class of 2010).

Below are their messages:

Sekar Arum Anugrah Gusti (Batch 2018)
University: Korea University
Program: Korean Studies (Master’s Degree)

“I once applied for the GKS scholarship in 2024 but didn’t make it. Of course I was sad, but at the same time, I was curious about what would come next. As it turns out, God allowed me to gain work experience and meet many people from different walks of life. We exchanged insights on Korea—topics I had never studied in class. Those insights actually helped me prepare for the LPDP application, which, alhamdulillah, was successful. Had I gone straight to grad school in Korea back then, I might’ve missed those experiences. I hope to find a supportive environment in Korea that helps me grow even more.

To friends who may feel their Korean language ‘spark’ isn’t as bright as others (I’ve been there…), or who feel their knowledge isn’t useful after graduation—look a little closer. Each of us walks a unique path, shaped by different experiences and life choices. Especially for those of you considering graduate school—if you’re genuinely interested and feel ready for the process, it’s okay to pursue other majors, languages, or even countries. A background in Korean Language and Culture can actually be a powerful combo for the knowledge you have. And please never feel like you’re alone. If you’re lost or unsure, don’t hesitate to ask questions!”

Asma Azizah (Class of 2010)
University: Sungkyunkwan University
Program: Korean Language Education (Doctoral Degree)

“Hi fellow Korean Language juniors at UGM! I’m Asma, a 2010 graduate of Korean Studies, and I’ll be continuing my PhD at Sungkyunkwan University with an LPDP scholarship. My message, especially for those considering further study: make the most of the LPDP scholarship opportunity to continue your studies in Korea. The process may seem complicated with many requirements, but I believe it’s part of your growth. Scholarship preparation doesn’t happen overnight, so get involved in academic and non-academic activities from as early as your first semester—anything that can support your future scholarship applications. Don’t be shy to reach out to your seniors (sunbae) for help, both when preparing for scholarships and once you begin your studies in Korea. Stay motivated to keep learning and to represent the Korean Language and Culture program—and Indonesia—with pride! ”

Their stories serve as an inspiration for current students and alumni of BKK UGM. With perseverance, reflection, and thorough preparation, opportunities to pursue further studies abroad through scholarships are more attainable than ever.

Author: Nisa Khairuna Sabilla

Yogyakarta, August 4, 2025 – Muhammad Hafidz Haikal Amirza, commonly known as Haikal, a 2022 cohort student of the Cultural Anthropology Study Program at the Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), is currently participating in the Community Service and Empowerment Learning Program (KKN-PPM) UGM Period II of 2025 in Bantane Village, Rainis District, Talaud Islands Regency, North Sulawesi. This region is one of Indonesia’s outermost points, directly bordering Davao del Sur, Philippines, making it a strategic yet challenging location for community service programs.

Haikal is part of the KKN Merintis Rainis team in the education sector, consisting of seven students (3 males, 4 females). Throughout the program, all members reside together in the house of the Head of Bantane Village. The presence of the KKN Merintis Rainis team has been warmly welcomed by the villagers, marked by a spirit of mutual cooperation. From the onset, the community exhibited a strong sense of kinship, with men voluntarily erecting a welcoming tent and women preparing meals to share. Such communal spirit is also evident in various village activities, from birthday celebrations and weddings to traditional and religious events.

During nearly two months of service, Haikal focused on the education and socio-cultural sectors, aligning with his background in anthropology. He and his team designed and implemented various activities, including cultural classes for village children and nature-based character education or nature schools. To support the transformation of primary education in underdeveloped, frontier, and outermost (3T) areas, Haikal and his team also facilitated multimedia and information technology training for teachers at SDK Torsina Bantane. This program aims to enhance educators’ capacity to deliver creative and adaptive learning in line with technological advancements.

Additionally, Haikal contributed to the establishment of the Bantane Village Youth Organization (Karang Taruna) as a platform to harness the potential of the village’s younger generation. He was also involved in reorganizing the school library, assisting in teaching at both elementary and high school levels, and supporting resident data collection through the Siga Mobile application, which is part of a technology-based public service system.

An output of the KKN Merintis Rainis program is a study titled “Borders as Social Spaces: Exploration of Identity and Marginalization (Case Study of Bantane Village, Rainis District, Talaud Islands Regency).” This research highlights the unique social dynamics and cultural identity of the Bantane community.

During his stay in Bantane, Haikal observed various interesting and distinctive aspects. He noted that the spirit of mutual cooperation remains vibrant, nightly gatherings serve as warm social interactions, and strong tolerance exists among residents. The clean, pollution-free environment, clear skies, and abundance of coconut trees characterize the village landscape. However, challenges such as frequent power outages and limited communication signals are part of the daily reality.

Haikal’s activities during KKN also directly align with efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Through educational assistance and technology training for teachers and village children, Haikal contributes to SDG 4: Quality Education, emphasizing the importance of inclusive and quality education for all. His involvement in resident data collection, library revitalization, and the formation of the village youth organization also supports SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities by strengthening social and institutional capacities at the local level.

Furthermore, by choosing a service location in a 3T area, Haikal and the KKN team strive to promote equitable development and service access, aligning with SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities, by reaching regions that have been less accessible to development. The successful collaboration between students, village government, schools, and the community also reflects the spirit of SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, emphasizing the importance of cross-sector collaboration in sustainable development.

Haikal also conveyed a message of encouragement to his peers at the Faculty of Cultural Sciences UGM who will participate in the next KKN period:

“Best wishes to FIB friends who will undertake KKN. It will be a very valuable experience for you not just about service, but also about how we learn and integrate with the existing community. Use the knowledge you’ve gained on campus to make an impact and contribute to Indonesian society.”

[Public Relations FIB UGM, Alma Syahwalani]

Yogyakarta, 11/7/2025 – Yogyakarta has once again become a magnet for cultural learning, this time for students from National Chengchi University (NCCU) who are currently undergoing an internship program at the Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM). Rather than simply sitting in an office, they are invited to explore the vibrant life of the local community and to understand the richness of culture from its source.

The journey began at Pasar Ngasem, one of the oldest traditional markets in Yogyakarta. Here, the students witnessed firsthand the interactions between vendors and buyers, the variety of local food ingredients, and the lively and dynamic atmosphere of the market. For many of them, this was their first experience seeing a traditional market that is vastly different from those in their home countries.

The adventure continued to Tamansari, the former royal garden of the Yogyakarta Sultanate, which is rich in historical and architectural value. Amidst the corridors and bathing pools filled with stories, the students not only listened to tales of the past but also reflected on how culture and history continue to thrive in the public spaces of this city.

Interestingly, on their way back from Tamansari, the group passed by a location where shadow puppet crafts are produced. Their curiosity led them to stop. At this site, they not only observed artisans at work but also received direct explanations about the world of wayang—ranging from the types of characters, the philosophy behind the stories, to the tools and materials used in the production process. Some even had the opportunity to hold the carving tools and buffalo leather used in the crafting process.

“This is a rich experience. I didn’t expect that Wayang Kulit has such deep meanings and that its production process is so intricate,” said one participant from Taiwan.

This activity serves as evidence that learning about culture cannot be confined to theory alone. By immersing themselves in places that are integral to the lives of the community, foreign students not only gain new knowledge but also emotional experiences that leave a lasting impression.

Through small steps like these, cultural exchange becomes more vibrant—bringing closer what is distant and uniting what is different in experiences that enrich both sides. The partnership between civil society and educational institutions plays a crucial role in facilitating such meaningful interactions.

As the students continue their journey, they are not just learning about Indonesian culture; they are also contributing to the preservation and appreciation of cultural diversity. This aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in promoting inclusive and sustainable cultural practices.

In conclusion, the experience of NCCU students in Yogyakarta highlights the importance of direct engagement with local culture. It emphasizes that understanding and appreciating cultural diversity requires more than just academic study; it necessitates active participation and genuine interaction with the community.