Yogyakarta, 28/2/2025 – INCULS marked the successful conclusion of the GMIF 2024 Program with a closing ceremony held in Room 709 of the Soegondo Building, Faculty of Cultural Sciences, UGM. The program welcomed 14 students from diverse national backgrounds, with the majority—nine students—hailing from Pakistan, while the remaining participants came from Uganda, Malawi, Kenya, Yemen, and Ethiopia.

During the event, Dr. Wulan Tri Astuti, S.S., M.A., Coordinator of INCULS, presented a comprehensive report summarizing the students’ activities throughout the program. Over the course of approximately four months, GMIF students undertook beginner-level Indonesian language courses, covering Reading, Vocabulary, Listening, Speaking, Writing, and Grammar, amounting to a total of 12 credits. Beyond classroom instruction, they engaged in cultural and educational excursions, including reading activities at Grhatama Pustaka Library, reading and listening exercises at the UGM Museum, and writing practice at the Chocolate Monggo Museum & Factory.

The ceremony also featured remarks from lecturer representative Ilfat Isroi Nirwani, S.S., M.A., and INCULS tutor Iqbal Tafqy Aunika. Representing the GMIF students, Muhammad Aarif delivered a heartfelt speech reflecting on their journey. The event concluded with the presentation of certificates and a video screening that captured memorable moments from the GMIF 2024 students’ time at INCULS.

With the program officially concluded, the students depart not only with improved Indonesian language skills but also with lasting memories and a deeper connection to Indonesian culture.

[INCULS Admin, FIB UGM, Decika Syahda Maharani]

Yogyakarta, December 20, 2024 – The Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) Period IV Community Service Program (KKN-PPM) Ngargoyoso “Menuju Lawu” team was officially dispatched to the service locations in Kemuning Village and Berjo Village, Ngargoyoso District, Karanganyar Regency. The team will run the service program for 50 days.

Preparations for departure began early in the morning at 07.30 WIB at the UGM Fire Brigade Post. Students were seen busy loading equipment such as suitcases, backpacks, and other needs to support activities in the field. Before leaving, all team members underwent a final briefing to ensure coordination and readiness.

Among the team members, there are two students from the Faculty of Cultural Sciences UGM, namely I Putu Adhimas Radiansyah Aryawan (Archaeology Study Program, class of 2022) and Khirana Marwadika (History Study Program, class of 2022). Their presence is expected to contribute to the optimization of village potential and community empowerment programs based on Smart Village and Eco Tourism in both villages.

The trip from Yogyakarta to Kemuning Village and Berjo Village took about 2.5 hours. Arriving at the location, the team immediately conducted a briefing and cleaned up to start the service. For the next 50 days, the KKN-PPM UGM team will try to help the local community in developing the village potential while creating a sustainable empowerment model.

With the spirit of togetherness, the team hopes that this program will not only provide tangible benefits to the people of Kemuning Village and Berjo Village but also become a valuable experience for UGM students in implementing the knowledge they have learned in college.

In a significant effort to promote access to education and cultural diversity, the American Studies Students and Alumni Association (ASSAA) in collaboration with the American Studies Society Indonesia (ASSINDO) successfully organized a series of events titled “Lecture Series and Thanksgiving Lunch 2024.” This event, held online via Zoom, focused on the theme “The Evolution of American Identity in a Multicultural Society,” reflecting the importance of education for sustainability and equal access to knowledge in developing countries.

Lecture Series Documentation

The Lecture Series commenced on Wednesday, November 6, 2024, with two engaging sessions. The first session featured Dr. Suzie Handajani, M.A., who discussed “Asian Americans: From Mainstream Media to Social Media.” This session highlighted the representation of Asian Americans in various media forms, emphasizing the need for cultural diversity in narratives that shape American identity.

Following Dr. Handajani’s presentation, Tino Torres, a graduate student from the City University of New York, presented on “American Identity Through a New York City Lens: A Reflection on Diversity and Cultural Contrasts.” His insights provided a unique perspective on how New York City, as a melting pot of cultures, influences the understanding of American identity.

Lecture Series Documentation

The second session took place on Thursday morning, November 7, 2024. Dr. Nur Saktiningrum, M.A., led a discussion on “Navigating Diversity: The Role of Intersectionality in Shaping American Identity.” This session underscored the importance of recognizing various intersecting identities in understanding the complexities of American culture.

Lecture Series Documentation

Prof. Dr. H. Nuriadi, S.S., M.Hum., followed with a fascinating exploration titled “Exploring The Use Of Pronoun Thou, Thee, Thy, Or Thine: A Fact From The American Quakers.” His presentation delved into the historical and cultural significance of language in shaping identity, further enriching the discourse on cultural diversity.

Participants in the Lecture Series included students and faculty from various universities across Indonesia, showcasing the event’s commitment to equal access to education and fostering a collaborative learning environment. The diverse audience reflected the cultural richness and academic engagement present in the field of American Studies.

Movie Discussion Documentation

On the afternoon of Thursday, November 7, the event culminated in a Movie Discussion and Thanksgiving Lunch. This gathering was attended by esteemed guests, including faculty members from the Faculty of Cultural Sciences, graduate students from American Studies, English Literature students, and representatives from ASSINDO. The event provided a platform for networking and sharing experiences among attendees.

The Movie Discussion, moderated by Ahdi Sakha, was characterized by a warm atmosphere and enthusiastic participation. Dr. Aris Munandar, M.Hum., opened the session with a heartfelt welcome, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to gather as an academic community during this festive occasion.

Following the discussion, attendees enjoyed a Thanksgiving Lunch, which served as a perfect opportunity for participants to reconnect, share experiences, and reminisce about their time in the American Studies program. This gathering not only celebrated academic achievements but also reinforced the bonds of community and cultural exchange.

The successful execution of the “Lecture Series and Thanksgiving Lunch 2024” exemplifies the commitment of ASSAA and ASSINDO to promote access to education, cultural diversity, and sustainable practices in the field of American Studies. As the world continues to evolve, such initiatives play a crucial role in fostering understanding and appreciation of diverse cultures, particularly in developing countries.

[Public Relation Faculty of Cultural Sciences UGM, Sandya Kirani]

The Department of Anthropology UGM hosted a significant guest lecture by Dr. Edna Agyepong, an academic from the University of Energy and Natural Resource. The guest lecture aimed to explain the complexities of cultural diversity and economic development in Africa, particularly in developing countries.

Dr. Agyepong began her lecture by emphasizing the importance of cultural diversity in shaping land use practices. He argued that understanding local customs and traditions is crucial for effective land management. “Cultural diversity is not just a matter of heritage; it is a vital resource for sustainable development,” he said. This perspective is in line with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 4, which encourages quality education that promotes sustainability.

The lecture also highlighted the role of education for sustainability in empowering communities. Dr. Agyepong pointed out that education initiatives must integrate local knowledge and practices to be effective. “When we educate people about their land and its significance, we empower them to make informed decisions,” he explained. This approach fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility among community members, which is crucial for sustainable economic development.

Dr. Agyepong also discussed the economic development challenges facing many African countries. He noted that while there is potential for growth, external factors such as climate change and global market fluctuations often hinder progress. “Developing countries must navigate these challenges while also preserving their cultural identity,” he said. This balancing act is critical to achieving the SDGs, particularly Goal 8, which focuses on promoting inclusive and sustainable economic growth.

The guest lecture also discussed the importance of civil society partnerships in driving development assistance. Dr. Agyepong emphasized that collaboration between governments, NGOs, and local communities is essential for effective resource management. “Civil society plays a critical role in championing the needs of the people and ensuring that development initiatives are inclusive,” he said. This collaborative approach can lead to more sustainable outcomes and greater community engagement.

As the lecture progressed, Dr. Agyepong shared case studies from various African countries, illustrating successful initiatives that integrate cultural diversity and sustainable practices. These examples served as inspiration to the participants, demonstrating the potential for positive change when local knowledge is valued and integrated into development strategies.

The audience was highly engaged during the Q&A session, where students asked questions about the practical application of Dr. Agyepong’s theories. Many expressed a desire to learn more about how they can contribute to sustainable development efforts in their own communities. Dr. Agyepong encouraged them to seek partnerships and engage with local organizations to make a meaningful impact.

In conclusion, Dr. Agyepong’s lecture provided valuable insights into the complexities of land use and cultural diversity in Africa. The emphasis on education for sustainability and the importance of civil society partnerships resonated strongly with participants, highlighting the need for collaborative efforts in achieving the SDGs. As the event drew to a close, participants left with renewed vigor and commitment to drive sustainable development in their own contexts. Dr. Agyepong’s lecture was a significant step in this direction, inspiring the next generation of leaders to embrace cultural diversity and work towards a sustainable future.

[Public Relations Faculty of Cultural Sciences UGM, Sandya Kirani]

The Faculty of Cultural Sciences Universitas Gadjah Mada (FIB UGM) held a release ceremony for staffing education personnel, Mr. Suwanto, on Monday, December 30, 2024. The event took place solemnly in the Auditorium of Building R. Soegondo 709 from 09.00 to 12.00 WIB.

The event began with remarks from representatives of faculty leaders, who expressed their gratitude for Mr. Suwanto’s dedication over the years. In his speech, the Dean of FIB UGM appreciated his contribution and hard work that had supported various faculty programs with full responsibility.

Furthermore, an emotional atmosphere was felt when Mr. Suwanto gave his parting words. He expressed his gratitude and happiness for the opportunity he had been given to be part of the big family of FIB UGM.

The event continued with the handover of mementos as a form of respect and appreciation for Mr. Suwanto’s service. The presentation was made by representatives of the education staff and faculty leaders.

The event ended with a group photo and social gathering, where all participants offered their prayers and best wishes for Mr. Suwanto’s next journey in life. The ceremony was an important moment to commemorate Mr. Suwanto’s service as well as to strengthen family ties within the Faculty.