Yogyakarta, 22/04/2025 – As part of an effort to deepen understanding of the dynamics of Indonesian politics, Indonesian Culture and Language Study (INCULS) students visited the Yogyakarta Special Region (DIY) DPRD Building and the DIY Governor’s Office. The visit not only provided insight into the legislative and executive processes at the local level, but also implicitly touched on the principles of sustainable development, particularly in terms of inclusive, transparent and accountable governance.

During the visit to the DPRD DIY, INCULS students discussed with the lecturers the role of the legislature in public policy making. They highlighted the importance of community participation in the political process, which is in line with peace processes that emphasize effective, inclusive and transparent governance. At the Governor’s Office, INCULS students had the opportunity to tour and hear about the challenges and strategies of development in Yogyakarta. Topics such as cultural preservation, poverty alleviation, and improving access to education were discussed. The DIY government emphasized the importance of collaboration between academics, communities, and policy makers to achieve sustainable development. Youth and students play a key role in driving innovation and monitoring public policies.

The visit not only enriched students’ understanding of Indonesian politics, but also made them realize that good public policy is the foundation of achieving the SDGs. By understanding the democratic process and governance, INCULS students are expected to become agents of change who promote sustainable development, both locally and globally. Politics is not just about power, but a tool to realize sustainable social and environmental justice. This activity is proof that political education and awareness of sustainable development must go hand in hand to create a better future. 

[Public Relation of INCULS, Thareeq Arkan Falakh]

Yogyakarta, 25/2/2025 – The Faculty of Humanities held an important workshop aimed at increasing collaboration between local governments and universities. The event was attended by the Regent of Siak Regency, Riau, as well as various stakeholders from the public and academic sectors. The workshop focused on the development of culture, tourism, and creative economy by utilising local potential to drive economic growth and development.

The workshop began with opening remarks from the Regent of Siak, who emphasised the importance of education in improving economic resources. He highlighted that universities have a crucial role in providing the knowledge and skills needed to empower local communities. By collaborating with local governments, educational institutions can help create a more sustainable and inclusive economic environment.

The participants engaged in discussions on the current state of cultural and tourism development in Siak. They explored how local resources can be optimised to increase the attractiveness of the area as a tourist destination. The Bupati emphasised that Siak is rich in cultural heritage and natural beauty, which if managed well, can contribute significantly to economic development.

One of the key topics discussed during the workshop was the integration of local culture into the education curriculum. Experts suggested that by incorporating local history and traditions into university programmes, students will be better equipped to promote and preserve their cultural identity. This approach not only enriches the educational experience but also fosters a sense of pride among the younger generation.

In addition, the workshop also highlighted the potential of the creative economy in driving economic growth. The participants discussed various creative industries, such as handicrafts, performing arts, and culinary, that could be further developed. The Regent encouraged local entrepreneurs to collaborate with universities to innovate and create new products that reflect Siak’s unique cultural identity.

In addition to the cultural and creative industries, the workshop also focused on sustainable tourism practices. Experts shared insights on how to develop tourism that respects local communities and the environment. The Regent emphasised that sustainable tourism is essential for long-term economic development and should be a priority for local governments and educational institutions.

The workshop concluded with a discussion on all stakeholders to work together in implementing the strategies discussed. Such collaboration is critical to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially in terms of economic resources, education, and economic growth.

As participants left the workshop, there was a real sense of optimism about the future of Siak. The collaboration between the local government and universities is expected to pave the way for innovative solutions that will boost the cultural, tourism and creative sectors in the area. This initiative is a significant step towards achieving sustainable economic development in Siak.

[Public Relations of Faculty of Cultural Sciences UGM, Bulan Churniati]

Yogyakarta, 21st of November 2024 – In the spirit of sharing happiness and social care, Kalingga (Keluarga Linguistik Gadjah Mada) Aksosmas (Social Action & Society) division is proud to report the success of the Happy Friday program. Through this program, the donations collected have been distributed to the brothers and sisters at Yayasan Sayap Ibu DIY Branch, located at Jl. Rajawali No. 3, Pringwulung, Condongcatur, Sleman, Yogyakarta.

The donations that have been received and distributed are:

1. 52 clothes (shirts and pants)
2. 1 shoulder bag
3. Food packages, converted from cash received, including pampers, milk, baby food, snacks, and eggs.

Kalingga would like to thank all those who have supported this program through donations and encouragement. Without the contributions of the Kalinggaes, this program would not have been possible.

“We hope that this assistance can bring benefits and happiness to those in need,” said a representative of Kalingga Aksosmas Branch.

With the success of this program, Kalingga continues to be committed to making social activities an important part of the community, bringing positive impacts to the surrounding community. Thank you for being part of this act of kindness!

Hello, Mahadaya!

 There is good news for those of you who take part in the SIBUYA (Breakfast at Faculty of Cultural Sciences UGM) program during the Final Semester Examination (UAS) Gasal. The Faculty of Cultural Sciences UGM has added an additional breakfast schedule to help maintain the spirit of students while taking UAS. The SIBUYA program will now also be held on two additional days, namely Thursday, December 5 and 12, 2024.

For this additional schedule, you can enjoy a nutritious breakfast at Selasar Soegondo. This program is presented by POTMA FIB UGM, with the hope of providing extra energy and enthusiasm for Mahadaya during the exam.

Don’t miss this opportunity to start the day with a healthy and nutritious breakfast! A healthy life starts with a fit body, and breakfast is an important key to facing exam challenges.

Keep your spirits up, Mahadaya, enjoy your SIBUYA, and have a successful UAS!

– FACULTY OF CULTURAL SCIENCES UGM

Thursday, October 10, 2024, Wonosobo Regency Bappeda Team held a meeting to explore research cooperation with UGM. The exploration targeted the Center for Rural and Regional Studies (PSPK) and the Department of Anthropology UGM for research programs related to SDG 1 (no poverty) and SDG 2 (zero hunger). The Bappeda team was received by the deputy head of PSPK and the staff of the UGM Anthropology Department represented by Dr. Atik Triratnawati, M.A. and Dr. Muh. Zamzam Fauzanafi, M.A.

The research was motivated by the high stunting rate in Wonosobo Regency, which is 29.2%. This is the highest rate in Central Java. In addition, the poverty rate in Wonosobo has not moved from 15.28% and remains above the average of Central Java Province. Seeing the concerns of the local community, Bappeda tried to partner with universities and study centers to overcome the stunting and poverty problems that plagued the community. Bappeda wanted the PSPK team to go to the field to reduce the poverty rate, while the Anthropology Department was expected to send its team to reduce the stunting rate.

From various stunting and poverty data presented by Bappeda Wonosobo, UGM (PSPK and Anthropology) agreed to conduct research in the area with an estimated time around the beginning of 2025. During the meeting, the Anthropology Department also explored sending student interns (independent research) in 2025. It is hoped that with these researches, new innovations will emerge to reduce stunting and poverty so that the Wonosobo Regency area can be free from them.

Author: Dr. Atik Triratnawati, M.A.
Editor: Sandya Kirani