Yogyakarta, 3/3/2025 – Faculty of Cultural Sciences (FIB) Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) celebrated its 79th Anniversary by holding a grand Open Senate Meeting at the 7th floor Auditorium of Soegondo Building. This year’s theme, ‘Menyongsong Delapan Dekade Berkarya Membangun Peradaban Dunia,’ reflects the faculty’s commitment to education and community development, in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The event began with opening remarks by the Chair of the Faculty Senate followed by Prof. Dr. Ova Emilia, M.Med.Ed., Sp.OG(K), Ph.D., Rector of UGM, giving an inspiring speech. Prof Emilia invited the entire academic community to continue to contribute to society through innovative research and community service.

In the main part, the Dean of FIB, Prof. Dr Setiadi, S.Sos., M.Si., delivered a comprehensive report showing the performance of the faculty over the past year. His report highlighted various educational programmes, community service initiatives, research projects, and achievements that have made a positive impact on the university and the surrounding community. He emphasised the faculty’s dedication in creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment.

One of the highlights of the event was the scientific speech delivered by Dr Gabriel Roosmargo Lono Lastoro Simatupang, MA, titled ‘Art: Optimising UGM’s Identity.’ In his speech, Dr Lono emphasised that UGM has an identity as a national university; a university of struggle; a Pancasila university; a populist university; and a university of cultural centres in accordance with the values of FIB UGM.

The event also honoured outstanding individuals within the FIB community. Awards were given to three exemplary lecturers, two dedicated education staff, two distinguished alumni, and eleven outstanding students. These awards not only celebrated individual achievements but also reinforced the importance of collaboration and support within the academic community. In a further exciting award announcement, FIB’s new mascots, Budi and Amulya, were introduced. These mascots are expected to promote the spirit of culture among faculty members.

The celebration closed with a mesmerising performance from the Paramadaya Choir, who sang ‘Bungong Joempa’ and ‘Viva La Vida,’ as well as an interactive singing session. The choir’s performance not only entertained the audience but also highlighted the role of music and arts in education, building a sense of community and shared experience.

The Faculty’s 79th Anniversary served as a reminder of the vital role that educational institutions play in shaping a better future for society, in line with the SDGs and inspired all participants to continue their journey of learning and contribution.

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

Yogyakarta, 27/2/2025 – In a meaningful celebration of community and respect, the Faculty of Cultural Sciences (FIB) Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) held a pilgrimage and anjangsana on Thursday, 27 February 2025, as part of its 79th Anniversary. The event took place at Sawitsari Cemetery, where lecturers and education staff gathered to honour the legacy of their predecessors.

The pilgrimage began in the morning, with participants arriving at the cemetery to pay their respects to the founders and influential figures of FIB. Among those honoured was the late R. Soegondo, whose name is enshrined in the FIB building. This act of respect not only recognises the contributions of these individuals, but also strengthens the sense of community within the faculty.

After the pilgrimage, the participants proceeded to the next part of the event: anjangsana to six retired FIB UGM officers. This activity aimed to strengthen the bonds of friendship and solidarity between active and retired faculty members. It is important to maintain these relationships, as they contribute to a mutually supportive academic community. During the visit, the retirees shared their experiences, providing valuable lessons for the younger generation. Discussions were lively, filled with laughter and nostalgia, as stories of the past were retold. This exchange of knowledge is crucial to building a sense of continuity and attachment within the FIB community. The following retirees were visited:

1. Dra. Esmeraldayanti Sosronwgoro, S.U.
2. Prof. Dr. Marsono, S.U.
3. Dr. Cartalyna Napitupulu, Maitrise
4. Drs. Eddy Pursubaryanto, Dipl.TESL, M.Hum.
5. Sudiyono
6. Drs. Sukandar

The event also highlighted the importance of intergenerational relationships in academia. By honouring the past while engaging with the present, FIB UGM demonstrates its commitment to building a sustainable community that values tradition and innovation. This is in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially in promoting inclusive and quality education. As the day came to an end, participants expressed gratitude for the opportunity to connect with each other and reflect on the FIB’s rich history. The pilgrimage was a reminder of the importance of community in the academic world, where collaboration and mutual support are essential for growth and development.

In conclusion, the Faculty’s 79th Anniversary is not only a celebration of the faculty’s achievements, but also a reaffirmation of the values that bind its community. Through acts of respect and connection, FIB continues to foster a dynamic academic environment that honours the past while looking to a bright future.

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

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, 23/2/2025 – University Club Boulevard hosted a seminar and workshop aimed at improving the role of PELBAKORI instructors in preparing prospective Indonesian migrant workers to work in South Korea. Welcomed by the dean of the Faculty of Humanities, Prof. Dr. Setiadi, S.Sos., M.Si., the event was a follow-up to an audience held in January 2025 between the Ministry of Protection of Indonesian Migrant Workers (KP2MI) and PELBAKORI, which focused on the government-to-government (G to G) labour dispatch programme.

Seminar dimulai dengan upacara pembukaan yang mencakup lagu kebangsaan Indonesia, diikuti dengan pembacaan doa. Suasana penuh semangat saat para undangan disuguhkan penampilan tari kipas Korea (Buchaechum) yang dibawakan oleh para mahasiswi dari Program Studi Bahasa dan Kebudayaan Korea. Pertunjukan yang memukau ini tidak hanya menunjukkan keindahan budaya Korea, tetapi juga menciptakan suasana positif untuk kegiatan hari itu. 

One of the crucial issues identified in this programme is the language barrier faced by Indonesian migrant workers, which is a concern for Korean employers. Many workers have difficulty understanding work instructions, resulting in miscommunication and potential conflict. To address this, PELBAKORI is committed to improving the quality and skills of prospective migrant workers, especially in language acquisition, by collaborating with academic institutions.

Instructors from vocational training centres (LPK) that are members of PELBAKORI play an important role in this initiative. They are tasked with equipping migrant workers with the language skills necessary to succeed in South Korea. Therefore, it is imperative that these instructors continue to improve their teaching skills in Korean.

The Korean Language and Culture Study Programme at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) has been a key partner of PELBAKORI since 2018. This collaboration aims to create synergy between academia, vocational training institutions, and KP2MI to improve the quality of prospective migrant workers. The ultimate goal is to prepare these workers to become ambassadors of the nation who contribute to the country’s foreign exchange earnings, in accordance with KP2MI’s tagline #BerangkatMigranPulangJuragan.

The seminar was attended by distinguished guests, including Dwi Setiawan Susanto, Director General of Promotion and Utilisation of Overseas Employment Opportunities at KP2MI, and Abri Danar Prabawa, Director of Vocational Institutional Development for Indonesian Migrant Workers at KP2MI. Also present will be the heads of UPT BP3MI from Yogyakarta, Central Java, and East Java, as well as Shin Jiwon from the Centre for Southeast Asian Studies at Hankuk University of Foreign Studies (HUFS).

The event will also feature expert speakers, including Suray Agung Nugroho, S.S., MA, Ph.D. from the department of Korean Language and Culture, Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Didin Samsudin, S.E., M.M., CHCM., CIT. from Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia, and Dr Hwang Who Young, M.A. from Universitas Gadjah Mada. Their insights will be invaluable in discussing challenges and solutions related to language training for migrant workers.

As part of the workshop, participants will engage in interactive sessions designed to improve their teaching methodologies and language teaching techniques. This practical approach aims to empower instructors to better prepare their students for the realities of working in South Korea, ensuring they can communicate and integrate well in the workplace.

This seminar and workshop is a significant step towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially in terms of access to education and decent work for all. By investing in the education and training of migrant workers, Indonesia not only improves their competitiveness but also fosters a more skilled workforce that can contribute positively to the economy.

In conclusion, collaboration between PELBAKORI, KP2MI, and academic institutions is crucial to the success of Indonesian migrant workers in South Korea. By overcoming the language barrier and improving the quality of training, this initiative will help create a generation of skilled workers who can be ambassadors for Indonesia abroad.

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

Yogykarta, 13/2/2025 – The International Student Orientation for the INCULS programme took place at the Auditorium on the 7th floor of Soegondo FIB UGM. The event aims to welcome new international students and provide important information about studying and living in Indonesia. The orientation is a significant step towards promoting cultural diversity and enhancing the educational experience for all students.

The event began with an inspiring speech from the Dean of the Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Prof. Dr. Setiadi, M.Si. who emphasised the importance of cultural diversity in education. He highlighted how the presence of international students enriches the academic environment and encourages a deeper understanding of different cultures. This is in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in promoting inclusive and quality education.

After the Dean’s welcome, Dr. Wulan Tri Astuti, S.S., M.A., Alvanita, S.S., M.Ed., gave an overview of the INCULS programme. She discussed the curriculum and introduced the tutors, the various activities planned for the semester, the culture in daily life, as well as the support services available to international students. Her presentation was well received, as it provided valuable insights into how to live academic life in Indonesia. Some INCULS tutors also participated in the orientation. They emphasised the importance of engaging with the local culture and participating in community activities within SMEs and student clubs. This not only helps students adapt but also enriches their educational journey by allowing them to learn from various perspectives.

The event concluded with a group documentation session, where all participants, including dozens of new INCULS students, gathered for a memorable group photo. This moment symbolised the beginning of their journey in Indonesia and the friendships they would make along the way.

Overall, the International Student Orientation for INCULS was a positive tone-setting first step for the upcoming semester. The event reinforces UGM’s commitment to fostering an inclusive educational environment that values cultural diversity and promotes global citizenship.

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