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, 15/5/2025 – 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]

Yogyakarta, 13 May 2025 — The Indonesian Language and Literature Programme at the Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada (FIB UGM), welcomed a visit on Tuesday, 13 May 2025, from 15 students and two faculty members from Warren Wilson College, North Carolina, United States. This student meeting was held as part of the Indonesian Friends Program (TESIA – Teman Indonesia). The programme was initiated in 2021 amidst the COVID-19 pandemic as an adaptation to cross-cultural learning through online platforms. This gathering marked a special moment within the collaborative efforts of the Indonesian Friends Program.

The meeting was attended by the Head and Secretary of the Indonesian Language and Literature Programme, Dr. Pujiharto, M.Hum., and Dr. Novi Siti Kussuji Indrastuti, M.Hum., who personally welcomed the Warren Wilson College delegation. Representing the guests were Prof. Kevin Kehrberg and Prof. Siti Kusujiarti, M.A., Ph.D., who served as faculty supervisors and key figures in fostering this inter-institutional partnership. The event brought together 15 students from Warren Wilson College and 30 students from the Indonesian Language and Literature Programme at FIB UGM for active and meaningful interaction.

The event opened with a classical Yogyakarta-style dance performance entitled “Sesanti Mangayu-Hayu”, performed by FIB UGM students. In her welcome speech, Dr. Novi Siti Kussuji Indrastuti, Coordinator of the Indonesian Friends Program, remarked that the gathering was a particularly meaningful moment, as it allowed both parties to finally meet face-to-face after months of online interaction. “Our students have been teaching the basics of the Indonesian language and culture to students at Warren Wilson College, and through that process, a very meaningful cross-cultural communication has emerged,” she noted.

In addition to the welcome ceremony and introductions, students from both universities participated in discussion sessions and shared experiences related to cross-cultural learning. During their stay in Indonesia, the Warren Wilson students are scheduled to visit several historical and cultural sites in Yogyakarta, including the Yogyakarta Palace (Keraton), Taman Sari, Malioboro, Prambanan Temple, and Borobudur Temple.

Throughout their time in Yogyakarta, the Warren Wilson students are staying in the Bulaksumur area, near the Universitas Gadjah Mada campus. UGM students have been assigned to accompany and support them during their visit to Indonesia. Through this programme, UGM reaffirms its commitment to international collaboration based on cultural exchange and the strengthening of educational diplomacy.

[Dr. Novi Siti Kussuji Indrastuti, M.Hum.]