Studying abroad is a dream for many students including one from English Studies Program UGM, Benedicta Angie. Since childhood, she had been curious about how people live their lives abroad. As a result, she had been actively searching for an opportunity to study abroad. Indonesian International Student Mobility Awards (IISMA), a program that is funded by the government that gives both vocational and undergraduate students a chance to study abroad in great universities across the world for one semester, was the perfect opportunity for Angie to make her dream come true. After a long selection process, Angie was successfully enrolled in IISMA fully funded program at Korea University, Republic of Korea (South Korea). 

During her stay in Korea University, Angie was enrolled in four courses: Media and Popular Culture in Korea, Criminology, Beginner’s Korean II, and Introduction to Applied Linguistics. One of the most interesting things she spotted while studying in Korea was the Korean students’ competitiveness. Angie realised this difference when she compared her learning experience in Criminology class, which is dominated by Korean students, with other classes that are mostly taken by international students. 

“In class, the local students were not very active in asking and answering questions, they are rather very quiet. But after going through the midterm exam, you can feel how serious they had been studying,” she stated, “Our professor curved our final grades, and must I be honest with you, it was very hard to keep up with them. The contrast is very visible to me, because in other courses, where most students are international students, the class dynamics and competitiveness are not different from the one that I have here in UGM.”

Overall, Angie enjoyed her academic journey in Korea. The classes were fun albeit challenging, and the professors were very helpful. She was a little bit disappointed because she was unable to join any clubs due to her short visiting period. However, she was still able to socialise and made friends through project groups and the buddy association gatherings. 

Besides in-class activity, Angie did many activities to immerse herself in South Korean culture. She visited many palaces, museums, art galleries, and festivals. Most of those places were free of charge, especially on Chuseok (Korean thanksgiving). The people were also very welcoming. Despite the language barrier, they tried their best to understand the foreign students.

From the exchange, aside from academics and multicultural insights, Angie learned to be patient to herself. This is a valuable insight that she would not have gained if she had not studied abroad in Korea. She stated, “Being in my comfort zone in Indonesia has made me forget that everyday is my first day of living. Sometimes I forget that as a human, I will make mistakes, there will be discomfort, and that life is not perfect. I learned so much that if I want to move forward, I must be patient with myself and enjoy the process.” 

After finishing the exchange program, Angie planned to finish her studies in time and enroll herself for a master’s degree abroad. In the meantime, she was eager to help friends who hope to go abroad by giving them advice that can help them with the preparation process. Aside from that, she also planned to use the knowledge she gained from the exchange program, especially Korean language, to fulfil her dream as a translator.

[Bachelor of English Literature, Sekar Ajiningsih]

One of the English Studies Program students, Azizah Putri Chandra Kusuma, spent a whole semester at Siena, Italy as an IISMA awardee. IISMA is a study abroad exchange program held by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology (Kemendikbudristek), which offers students to study in highly reputable universities from all around the world for one semester.

Azizah was eager to participate in this program because going abroad has been her dream since she was young. Due to financial reasons, she never had been able to take it into action. Upon discovering IISMA, Azizah thought that this would be the perfect opportunity to accomplish her dreams due to the great range of expenses the program offers. After going through a rigorous selection process, Azizah was finally declared as one of the awardees.

Azizah was very enthusiastic about the opportunity of studying abroad in Italy. She said, “Studying in Siena, Italy, as an IISMA awardee has been nothing short of transformative. Being in Italy means that the experience will be beyond just attending classes. It’s about immersing myself in a completely different academic environment and embracing the beauty of Italian cultures.”

During her academic journey in Italy, Azizah had an opportunity to collaborate with many other international students. This opportunity broadened her perspective and improved her communication skills. Besides the opportunity to study with many students from all over the world, Azizah also found the education system in Italy particularly interesting. In Italy, students have to take an oral exam in addition to the typical written exam. The oral exam is a one-on-one session with the professors discussing what students have learned during the class.

Beyond academics, Azizah also spent her time immersed with Italian culture. Siena was full of charming medieval streets and architecture rich in history. Azizah was particularly fond of Piazza del Campo. She used to sit in its front yard to have discussions with friends while enjoying local cuisines, such as pizza or gelato. Azizah noted that Siena differs in atmosphere from other big cities in Italy—it offers warmer and more intimate ambiance. The locals were friendly and welcoming towards Azizah, despite her struggles at communicating with the Italian language.

For Azizah, IISMA was a life-changing experience that had taught her valuable lessons inside and outside of the classroom. “Studying in Siena with classes that are mostly beyond my study field in English Literature has given me numerous insights that taught me to analyze topics from multiple perspectives and engage in discussion with confidence,” Azizah stated, “I also learned to appreciate cultural differences and embrace diverse environments, which also taught me the importance of cultural sensitivity or understanding that what is normal in one culture may be different in another.”

Azizah also noted that the exchange experience had increased her independence and resourcefulness. She also realised that her stay in Italy has also helped her improve her proficiency in Italian. Azizah was grateful to be participating in IISMA, which had become a journey of self-discovery as a learner with a mission to be an ambassador of Indonesian culture.

After completing IISMA, Azizah planned to apply what she had learned during her exchange program in her academic and professional journey. For short-term planning, Azizah was excited to help fellow students who also want to study abroad but unable to afford preparation courses by being an IELTS mentor without charging a fee. For long-term planning, Azizah hoped to enrol in a master degree program abroad in order to further broaden her horizons. She mentioned, “Ultimately, this exchange has given me the motivation to pursue bigger goals, and I am excited to know where this experience will lead me next.”

[S1 Sastra Inggris, Sekar Ajiningsih]

Yogyakarta, March 23, 2025 – In an effort to revive the intellectual legacy of one of Indonesia’s greatest literary figures, Toko Buku Natan in collaboration with the Master’s Program in Literature at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) held the Centennial Commemoration of A.A. Navis at Rumah Budaya Ndalem Natan, Kotagede, Yogyakarta. This event attracted literature enthusiasts, academics, and cultural figures eager to explore A.A. Navis’ critical thoughts and contributions to national literary development. Featuring a series of activities, including academic discussions, book launches, an art exhibition, and musical performances, the commemoration became a reflective moment that delved deeper into the social, cultural, and linguistic aspects of Navis’ works.

As one of the most influential figures in Indonesian literature, A.A. Navis gained widespread recognition for his classic short story, Robohnya Surau Kami (The Collapse of Our Mosque), which offered a profound critique of societal structures. Set during the harmonious spirit of Ramadan, this event brought together various stakeholders to discuss Navis’ legacy and critical thoughts, featuring renowned speakers such as Dhianita Kusuma Pertiwi (writer and curator), Prof. Dr. Aprinus Salam (academic and literary scholar), and Nasir Tamara, M.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. (cultural expert). The discussion was further enriched by a cello performance by Lintang Pramudia Swara, providing an aesthetic and immersive experience for the participants.

One of the event’s key highlights was the launch of the book “Kesalahan dan Kejahatan dalam Berbahasa” (Errors and Crimes in Language) by Prof. Dr. Aprinus Salam. This book critically examines language awareness within social and legal contexts. Drawing from his extensive academic and professional experience as an expert witness in various linguistic cases, Prof. Aprinus presents this book as a primary reference for linguistic studies and the role of language in Indonesia’s legal practices.

During the discussion, Prof. Aprinus Salam explored the contrast between social critiques in the works of A.A. Navis and Pramoedya Ananta Toer, highlighting how Navis focused more on critiquing societal structures, while Pramoedya directed his criticisms toward the government and power structures. Meanwhile, Dhianita Kusuma Pertiwi shared her research and archival experience for the 100 Years of A.A. Navis exhibition, held in Jakarta and at UNESCO in Paris. She traced Navis’ educational background at INS Kayutanam, an institution that played a crucial role in shaping his critical thinking, not only in literature but also in music and visual arts.

At the same time, Nasir Tamara, M.A., M.Sc., Ph.D. connected A.A. Navis’ intellectual lineage to the Académie française in Europe, particularly France, which was heavily influenced by the ideas of René Descartes. Citing Descartes’ philosophy “Cogito, ergo sum” (I think, therefore I am), Nasir Tamara emphasized that intellectual awareness and critical thinking are the foundations of a true thinker and writer. This perspective aligns with A.A. Navis’ approach to literary discourse, where he not only documented reality but also challenged, questioned, and inspired social change.

As part of the celebration, Lintang Pramudia Swara delivered a cello performance, enriching participants’ reflective experience. Meanwhile, an art exhibition by renowned artist Anagard featured 11 portraits of prominent Minangkabau figures, including A.A. Navis, Tan Malaka, Sutan Sjahrir, Buya Hamka, and Asrul Sani. This exhibition provided a visual narrative of the intellectual contributions and roles of Minangkabau figures in Indonesia’s national history.

The event also served as a space for literary appreciation, featuring poetry readings by Afnan Malay and a recital of Gurindam 12 by Raja Ali Haji, performed by Nasir Tamara, further enriching the significance and atmosphere of this literary celebration.

During the reflective session, Prof. Aprinus Salam presented two thought-provoking statements for participants to ponder. The first, “Your tongue is sharper than a sword,” underscored the extraordinary power of words in shaping, influencing, and even overturning societal structures. The second, “Words are only sharper for those who are sensitive,” highlighted language as not merely a communication tool but a profound expression with transformative power for those attuned to social and humanitarian realities.

This event was part of a broader initiative to honor great figures in Indonesian literature, following the centennial commemoration of Pramoedya Ananta Toer held earlier. Through the centennial of A.A. Navis, the discussion reinforced awareness of literacy, intellectual heritage, and its relevance to younger generations. Prof. Aprinus Salam emphasized that language possesses transformative power, envisioning a future where short story writers and poets stage protests by reciting poetry in front of legislative buildings, proving that words wield more power than physical weapons.

The event concluded with a communal iftar (breaking of the fast), not only fostering solidarity but also offering a profound reflection on the role of literature in shaping social and cultural consciousness. Toko Buku Natan, in collaboration with the Master’s Program in Literature at UGM, remains committed to facilitating academic discussions, literary forums, and various literacy initiatives to support intellectual and cultural development in Indonesia.

[Public Relations Magister of Literature, Anisa Dien Rahmawati]

Yogyakarta, 27/3/2025 – On March 15, 2025 Saturday, HMJ Kamastawa held a Grand Launching of its cabinet this year. Grand Launching is one of the RPO division work programs this year which has the aim to introduce divisions, heads of divisions, and work programs of the Student Association.

Accompanied by the appearance of Cokekan, at 8 am guests ranging from lecturers to other HMJ members came. The event was opened formally by singing the song Indonesia Raya, Hymn Gadjah Mada, and Mars Literature. In addition, at the opening of this event there was a Sekar Pudyastuti dance offering displayed by 2 female students.

The event was continued with remarks both from the Chairperson of HMJ Kamastawa for the 2025/2026 period, HMJ Kamastawa Trustees, and the Chairperson of the Javanese Language, Literature and Culture Study Program. Entering the core of the event, namely the symbolic release of the cabinet led by the Chair of the Study Program by tapping the microphone 3 times, followed by the video that releases the name and the logo of the cabinet.

After that, Chairman of HMJ Kamastawa explained the color philosophy and logo designed, did not forget the vision and mission of HMJ Kamastawa for the next year. After the chairman explained his vision and mission, the event continued with the introduction of divisions, heads of divisions, and work programs of each division.

HMJ Kamastawa Trustees, Mr. Dr. Rudy Wiratama S.I.P., M.A gives a little correction that in Javanese, the Grand Launching diction can be changed to kepyakan. Then in his remarks at the beginning of the event, the Chair of the Study Program also conveyed the importance of cooperation and pleasure in launching work programs in the organization.

The event was closed with documentation with all members of HMJ Kamastawa, lecturers, and invited guests. With the holding of this Grand Launching, it is hoped that later HMJ Kamastawa can establish good relations and be known by other HMJ management friends, BSO, and LEM FIB.

[Public Relations of Javanese Literature, Fega Achillea Maydena]

Yogyakarta, 27/3/2025 – Javanese Language, Literature, and Culture student of 2024 batch, Ghibran Arsha Daffa (NIM 24/543974/SA/23427) or familiarly called Ghibran, made it to the final stage in the Dimas-Diajeng contest of the Special Region of Yogyakarta. Dimas-Diajeng itself is the term for a pair of male and female teenagers who are officially appointed as DIY tourism ambassadors. For men, it is called Dimas, and for women, it is called Diajeng. The selection of Dimas-Diajeng is under the auspices of the Tourism Office. Meanwhile, the most important task of Dimas-Diajeng itself is to promote tourism and culture in their respective regions.

To start Dimas-Diajeng’s journey, Ghibran went through file selection, semifinals, psychological tests, deep interviews, then entered the final stage consisting of 15 men and 15 women. After the file selection stage, participants were given the task of creating video content about promoting tourist attractions in the city of Jogja and Ghibran chose to discuss Pasar Ngasem, which turned out that no one of the other participants chose that topic.

If selected and crowned as Dimas, Ghibran must be a representative of the dynamic and cultured youth of Jogja and actively participate in tourism promotion activities.

In the process, one of the things Ghibran remembers most is when collecting files because Ghibran collected the files 7 minutes before the registration deadline. This is because Ghibran actually intended to register for Dimas-Diajeng Bantul City, but it turned out that this year it was not going to be held. Therefore, Ghibran immediately prepared himself in a short time to register for Dimas-Diajeng Jogja City.

In addition, in the process of making video content, Ghibran found things that moved and impressed him. One of them was when he met a grandmother selling traditional toys. Ghibran said that even though her merchandise was quiet, the grandmother looked happy when she was invited to interview. According to the grandmother, she had been selling toys since she was little. The grandmother also prayed for Ghibran so that his steps would be smooth in undergoing the Dimas-Diajeng contest.

After the final, the Top 3 Dimas-Diajeng will be selected to represent the city of Jogja in the election of Dimas-Diajeng Yogyakarta Province. So if Ghibran is selected in the Top 3 list, Ghibran must compete again in Dimas-Diajeng Yogyakarta province.

However, even though Ghibran will be busy with Dimas-Diajeng activities in the city of Jogja, Ghibran still wants to contribute as a student in the Javanese Language, Literature, and Culture study program at UGM, one of which is in the field of storytelling. Ghibran intends to take part in a national-level storytelling competition, or even a monologue.

Ghibran’s hope for the future is that this Dimas-Diajeng program can help and educate many people, especially in the field of tourism. Let’s pray that all of Ghibran’s goals and aspirations will be achieved!

[Public Relations of Javanese Literature, Fega Achillea Maydena]