Yogyakarta, 24 April 2025 – A cooperation meeting took place at the Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada (FIB UGM). Held in Meeting Room 1, Building C, the event brought together three representatives from Oberlin College with two vice deans from FIB UGM, along with several lecturers from the English Literature programme and other faculty members. The meeting aimed to strengthen global partnerships and explore opportunities for student engagement through online exchange activities.

The session opened with welcoming remarks from the vice deans, who emphasised the importance of international collaboration in enhancing educational experiences. They highlighted how such partnerships align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in promoting quality education and global partnerships for sustainable development.

The representatives from Oberlin College presented their vision for the collaboration, focusing on the potential for online student exchanges. They discussed various platforms and tools that could facilitate such exchanges, enabling students from both institutions to share academic experiences and cultural insights. The initiative aims to create a more connected learning environment that transcends geographic boundaries. The discussion also explored the types of activities that could be carried out in an online exchange setting. UGM faculty members proposed a range of programmes, especially those that incorporate local cultural content.

Beyond academic exchange, the representatives also emphasised the importance of cultural exchange. They acknowledged that understanding different cultures is essential in today’s increasingly interconnected world. Plans were made to incorporate cultural activities into the virtual exchange programme, allowing students to showcase their traditions and learn from one another.

In summary, the cooperation meeting between Oberlin College and the Faculty of Cultural Sciences UGM marked a significant step toward enhancing global partnerships in education. By leveraging technology for virtual exchange, both institutions aim to provide meaningful learning experiences that go beyond borders. This initiative not only aligns with the SDGs but also prepares students to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.

[Public Relation Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Bulan Churniati]

Yogyakarta, 17 May 2025 – Exchange students from various universities, both domestic and international, gathered at Oemah Petroek, Kaliurang, for a full day of exploration and dialogue. Organised by the Faculty of Cultural Sciences (FIB) of Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), the event aimed to strengthen partnerships and enhance educational experiences in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those focusing on improving the quality of education and fostering partnerships to achieve these goals.

The attending exchange students represented institutions such as Universitas Brawijaya, Universitas Halu Oleo, Universitas Diponegoro, and Universitas Jambi, along with peers from South Korea, Taiwan, Japan, Italy, and other countries. This diverse gathering highlighted the importance of cultural exchange and educational collaboration, which are essential to achieving the SDGs.

The FIB UGM leadership present at the event included Prof. Dr. Setiadi, S.Sos., M.Si. as Dean of FIB UGM; Dr. Nur Saktiningrum, S.S., M.Hum. as Vice Dean for Academic and Student Affairs; Mimi Savitri, M.A., Ph.D. as Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Cooperation, and Alumni; and Suray Agung Nugroho, M.A., Ph.D. as Vice Dean for Finance, Assets, and Human Resources. Also in attendance were Erika Purnawati, S.Kom., M.Cs. as Head of the Administration Office and Yusuf Sulistiyo, A.Md., S.Psi., M.M. as Academic Officer, along with several representatives from the public relations and cooperation units.

The heart of the event was a discussion session in which exchange students shared their experiences at FIB UGM. They offered constructive feedback and suggestions on their academic journey, highlighting both the positive aspects and areas for improvement. Students expressed appreciation for the supportive academic environment at FIB UGM, noting the dedication of lecturers and the availability of resources. However, they also pointed out challenges that the faculty and university leadership took note of for future improvements.

Following the main session, students were given a tour of Oemah Petroek, a cultural museum showcasing the rich traditions of the archipelago. Students were encouraged to immerse themselves in the local culture, a vital component of their exchange experience. This hands-on approach aligns with the SDGs’ goal of promoting quality education and lifelong learning opportunities for all. The event concluded with a follow-up address by Prof. Dr. Setiadi, M.Si.

Overall, the exchange students’ visit to Oemah Petroek was not only a cultural excursion but also a vital platform for dialogue and partnership. By addressing challenges and celebrating the successes of their educational experience, the event contributed to the broader goals of sustainable development in education. The collaboration between FIB UGM and its international partners reflects a commitment to building a global learning community.

[Public Relation Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Bulan Churniati]

Yogyakarta – Environmental issues took center stage at the Contemporary American Issue seminar organized by the American Studies Program, Universitas Gadjah Mada, on Thursday, May 9, 2025, held at the Soegondo 70X. The event featured two influential speakers: Prof. Anna M. Gade and Achmad Munjid, Ph.D.

The session opened warmly by Prof. Anna M. Gade, a Professor of Environmental Studies and Associate Dean for Research and Education at the Nelson Institute for Environmental Studies. She is also known for her significant work Muslim Environmentalisms: Religious and Social Foundations, published by Columbia University in 2019, which explores how diverse Muslim communities address ecological issues through social and spiritual foundations. Prof. Gade presented a talk titled “American Nature: Ecology, Environment, Sustainability.” In her presentation, she delved into the historical evolution of the concept of nature in America. She invited participants to reflect on how the concept and ideology of “nature” in American culture have been shaped by two frameworks, aesthetic and sublimation approaches that portray nature as both beautiful and imbued with deep spiritual meaning.

Prof. Gade emphasized that the concept of “nature” needs to be reexamined, as the prevailing approaches to nature should not remain confined to mere romanticization. Understanding nature should go beyond aesthetic contemplation and instead foster real action and ethical responsibility in caring for the Earth.

Peserta seminar bersama para pembicara dan tamu undangan

As a reflection, the discussion reminded us of the importance of revisiting how the concept of nature has been formed and evolved over time. It also challenges us to reconsider our position in relation to nature: is it nature that needs us, or are we ultimately dependent on nature?

[Postgraduate Program in American Studies, Nariza Ayu Pasha]

Yogyakarta, 15/05/2025 – INCULS (Indonesia Culture and Language Services) is not only an institution dedicated to teaching Indonesian to foreign speakers but also serves as a strategic platform in supporting Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The experience of Rifan Shinji, a 2020 graduate of Japanese Language and Culture, as a tutor at INCULS demonstrates how inclusive and adaptive educational approaches can foster quality education. By prioritizing the needs of international students from diverse backgrounds such as Monash University students who prefer casual conversations or Ritsumeikan University students interested in traditional music, Rifan applies contextual learning methods. For example, UNSW students are taken to museums to understand Indonesian politics, while Kokushikan University students engage directly with local communities to learn about customs. This approach not only strengthens linguistic comprehension but also builds cross-cultural skills, aligning with national principles of education for sustainable development and multiculturalism.

Additionally, INCULS contributes to reducing inequality by implementing principles of equality in learning. Rifan emphasizes that all students are treated fairly without favoritism, even though challenges such as mood differences or language barriers often arise. To address these, tutors use personal approaches, such as sharing meals with students or utilizing translation technology to ensure effective material delivery. However, the fact that all current INCULS tutors are male also highlights potential room for improvement in gender equality, which could be a focus for future development.  

On another note, INCULS plays a vital role in preserving and promoting Indonesian culture. Through language teaching, tutors also introduce the richness of Indonesian culture, from traditional music to local customs. Rifan gives examples of how Ritsumeikan students are interested in learning gamelan, while HUFS students are more enthusiastic about discussing Indonesian pop music. This dissemination of cultural knowledge not only enriches the perspectives of international students but also strengthens Indonesia’s soft power diplomacy on the global stage. The impact is multiplicative, as these students will carry their understanding of Indonesia back to their home countries, creating a broader cultural network.  

To support this strategic role, Rifan suggests the need for infrastructure development at INCULS, such as constructing a dedicated Indonesian language teaching building. Adequate facilities would allow the institution to enhance teaching capacity and reach more foreign learners. By maintaining teaching quality and expanding collaborative networks, INCULS can continue to be a pioneer in Indonesian language education while contributing to sustainable development. Through a holistic approach combining education, culture, and inclusivity, INCULS proves that language teaching is not merely knowledge transfer but also an investment in global peace and progress.

[INCULS, Thareeq Arkan Falakh]

Yogyakarta, 15/5/2025 – Rina Dwi Astuti, a 2021 student from the Bachelor of Japanese Language and Culture who had the opportunity to study at Ferris University, shared her meaningful experiences during her time in Yokohama, Japan.

As part of the Spring Semester exchange program, Ferris University organized a study tour called the Japan Study Tour. This three-day, two-night trip to Hiroshima aimed to strengthen the bonds between exchange students and local Ferris University students, while also deepening their understanding of the importance of peace.

During the trip, Rina and other participating students visited several iconic locations, including the Itsukushima Shrine in Miyajima and Hiroshima Castle. They also visited significant sites such as the Hiroshima Peace Memorial, the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, Honkawa Elementary School—which served as an evacuation site for survivors of the atomic bombing—and the former site of an Indonesian student dormitory in Hiroshima. Additionally, the students had the rare opportunity to listen to a firsthand account from Mr. Yamada, who was just two years old at the time of the bombing.

As a history enthusiast, Rina mentioned that visiting Itsukushima Shrine, known for its famous torii gate standing in the sea, and Hiroshima Castle left the deepest impression on her. Her visit to the castle allowed her to imagine how people once lived and thrived in the area, which is now preserved as a historical site. Although the tour did not directly relate to her academic courses or specific field of study, Rina appreciated the chance to learn new vocabulary that she might not encounter in class.

Rina also expressed her gratitude to Ferris University for the thorough support provided to international students during the preparation for the Japan Study Tour. The university shared a clear and well-structured itinerary, helping prevent confusion and patiently assisting students who faced difficulties in getting ready for the trip.

The Japan Study Tour had a profound impact on Rina’s perspective of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima during World War II. Through learning about the event in depth—without justifying the actions of any party—she came to a greater understanding of the value of global peace. Rina also expressed her desire to spread the message of peace by sharing the knowledge she gained with those who are willing to listen.

[Valentina Pramahita Iswari through Public Relation of Japanese Literature, Yulia Agustiani]