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

West Lombok, 23/7/2025 — In an effort to introduce Arabic language and culture to children from an early age, students from Universitas Gadjah Mada’s Community Service Learning Program (KKN-PPM) organized a program titled “Arabic Days: Introduction to Arabic Language and Culture” in Karang Bucu Lauq Hamlet, Bagik Polak Village, West Lombok Regency. Held every Tuesday and Wednesday over a three-week period from July 8 to July 23, 2025, the sessions took place at the Syamsul Huda prayer hall.

This initiative was led by a member of the KKN-PPM Antologi Labuapi Team, a student from the Arabic Study Program at UGM, as a form of community engagement through education rooted in Islamic and cultural values. The primary goal was to introduce children to the basics of the Arabic language and cultural elements in a fun and engaging way. The participants were children attending the local TPQ (Qur’anic Learning Center), ranging from 3 to 8 years old.

Throughout the program, KKN students guided the children directly in learning hijaiyah letters, reading Iqra and the Qur’an, and introducing them to basic Arabic vocabulary, greetings, and aspects of Arab culture, such as traditional foods and clothing. Each session was designed to be child-friendly and enjoyable, using interactive learning methods like illustrated PowerPoint presentations, Islamic-themed animated videos, educational songs, and simple games with Islamic nuances. These methods ensured that the children not only understood the material but also enjoyed and stayed engaged throughout the learning process.

The children showed high enthusiasm and curiosity from the very first day, actively participating in every activity with joy and interest. The local community warmly welcomed and supported the program, seeing it as a positive contribution to the children’s learning, especially in religious education and broader exposure to Islamic culture. Parents and community members appreciated the students’ active involvement in delivering fun and communicative learning.

Through Arabic Days, the KKN-PPM students hope to instill a love for the language of the Qur’an and broaden the children’s understanding of the rich and diverse Arab culture. This program stands as a testament to how creatively designed education can bridge religious and cultural values in a harmonious and impactful way within local communities.

Author: Chusna Shifati

Bandung, July 20, 2025 — Students from Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) participating in the KKN-PPM Sekocihampelas program conducted a creative community empowerment initiative titled “Reusing Eggshell Waste as Calligraphy Decorations.” The workshop, held at Bening Saguling Foundation in Cihampelas, West Bandung Regency, engaged local Karang Taruna youth in transforming everyday waste into meaningful works of art.

The activity began with a presentation on the potential of eggshells as recyclable art materials, followed by a hands-on session where participants crafted calligraphy pieces using the discarded shells. This initiative served not only as a creative outlet but also as an environmental awareness campaign, encouraging responsible household waste management through artistic reuse.

This program was spearheaded by the KKN-PPM UGM student team and reflects the core values of the Arabic Study Program, which envisions language and art as powerful tools for community engagement. During the practical session, participants created a variety of calligraphy designs, including names, Islamic expressions, and animal motifs like birds. The energy and enthusiasm from the youth showcased their strong interest in art and sustainable practices.

Nur Kumalatuz Zahroh, the student unit coordinator and lead organizer, expressed hope that this initiative would serve as a catalyst for sustainable waste management habits in the community.

“We hope that this activity not only teaches participants to create art but also raises awareness about environmental conservation. What was once discarded waste, like eggshells, now has artistic and economic value,” she explained.

The program actively supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDGs 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, by creatively repurposing organic waste into useful and aesthetic products. Furthermore, it aligns with SDGs 17: Partnerships for the Goals, as the activity was conducted in collaboration with local stakeholders—Karang Taruna youth and the Bening Saguling Foundation—underscoring the importance of community-based partnerships in promoting sustainability.

More than just an art workshop, this initiative became a collaborative platform for education, environmental awareness, and community empowerment. Through this participatory and cross-sector approach, UGM’s KKN-PPM students successfully delivered a program that combined creativity, sustainability, and local engagement.

Author: Nur Kumalatuz Zahroh

Yogyakarta, 23 Juli 2025 – A proud achievement has once again been made by a student of the Arabic Study Program, Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM). Ihsania Salma, a 2023 cohort student known for her active and inspiring spirit, has successfully earned the 2024 Beasiswa Unggulan from the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology (Kemendikbudristek). This prestigious scholarship is awarded to outstanding youth committed to making real contributions to society.

In an exclusive interview with the IKMASA Media Team, Ihsania—affectionately called Sania—shared her journey as a passionate student, literacy activist, and campus leader. She has taken on numerous roles with dedication, including as Mentor Coordinator for La-Tansa, Co-Facilitator for PPSMB PIONIR, and Chairperson of the 2024 Festival Anak Gadjah Mada Menginspirasi. She is also actively involved in teaching communities and women’s advocacy through Srikandi UGM.

“Becoming an awardee isn’t just about academic scores, but about who we are and what we stand for,” said Sania.

She emphasized that consistency, strong intent, and the courage to step outside one’s comfort zone were the keys to securing the scholarship. Through writing, podcasting, and meaningful daily contributions, Sania shows that every step—no matter how small—can carry great impact.

Through this achievement, Sania hopes to continue creating a meaningful impact and serve as an inspiration to her fellow Arabic Literature students. She encourages peers to start from small things, stay consistent, and dare to dream big.

“We don’t have to be perfect to be useful. Just start with small, sincere steps,” Sania concluded enthusiastically.

For students inspired by Sania’s story, a golden opportunity is now available. The registration for Beasiswa Unggulan 2025 is officially open until July 27, 2025. This program offers financial support to high-achieving students who are committed to using their knowledge and talents in service of society. Don’t miss it out! Prepare your documents and apply through the official portal at beasiswaunggulan.kemdikbud.go.id 

[ Arabic Literature, Muhammad Ardiansyah]

Yogyakarta, 17/5/2025 – A proud achievement has once again been recorded by a student from Gadjah Mada University (UGM). Haris Arfakhsyadz Azka Maula, a student of the Arabic Literature Study Program at the Faculty of Cultural Sciences, successfully secured 2nd place in the prestigious International Arabic Speech Competition (Khiṭābah ‘Arabiyyah) held as part of the GEKA 7 International event.

The competition took place from May 14 to 17, 2025, at Muhammadiyah University of Yogyakarta (UMY) and served as an international stage featuring 26 participants from various renowned institutions, both domestic and abroad. Countries such as Malaysia, Thailand, and Turkey sent their best delegates. Notable foreign universities participating included Universiti Malaya, USIM, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, and Fatoni University from Thailand.

In a competitive atmosphere filled with enthusiasm, Haris stood out as the sole delegate from UGM’s Arabic Literature program, showcasing his proficiency in Arabic while delivering a speech in front of an international jury and audience. With sharp rhetorical skills, a strong command of the language, and high confidence, Haris managed to impress the judges and secured the second position, just one point behind the first-place winner from Darussalam Gontor University.

“I feel very grateful. All of this is thanks to the guidance of my lecturers, the support of my friends, and the prayers from my parents who have always accompanied my journey.” Haris expressed emotion after the announcement of the winners.

The International Arabic Speech Competition is a significant event that aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in promoting access to education and enhancing educational opportunities in developing countries. By participating in such international competitions, students like Haris not only gain valuable experience but also contribute to the global dialogue on education and cultural exchange.

As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, the importance of education in developing countries cannot be overstated. Events like the International Arabic Speech Competition provide a platform for students to showcase their talents and foster a sense of community among diverse cultures. Haris’s achievement is a testament to the potential that lies within students when given access to quality education and opportunities.

This achievement is tangible proof that Indonesian students, especially in the humanities field like Arabic Literature, can compete and excel on the international stage. Haris’s victory also reflects the quality of education and the collaborative spirit within the UGM academic environment, which continuously encourages its students to excel and contribute in global forums.

Haris Arfakhsyadz Azka Maula’s story is not just about competition; it embodies the spirit of learning, dedication, and the belief that language is a bridge to the world. This achievement serves as an inspiration for the younger generation to dare to dream and take steps further.

[Public Relations of FIB UGM, Candra Solihin]