Yogyakarta, May 17, 2025 – The Arabic Study Program Student Association (IKMASA) of Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) warmly welcomed a delegation from Qismul Adabil ‘Arabiy (QIS’AR) of Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS) for a comparative study visit held at the Faculty of Cultural Sciences, UGM. The event was held to strengthen inter-organizational connections and foster lasting relationships between student associations of Arabic Study programs.

The visit was attended by all members of IKMASA, representing each department, and led by IKMASA Chairperson Candra Solihin. The QIS’AR UNS delegation, numbering around 50 students, was accompanied by their Chairperson, Adil Alhuda.

The visit began with welcoming speeches from the heads of both student associations, followed by detailed presentations of work programs from each department. To facilitate in-depth discussions, participants were divided into smaller groups consisting of 2–3 corresponding departments for more focused exchanges.

The event concluded with a documentation session held in Room 709 of the Soegondo Building and in front of the Graha Sabha Pramana building, capturing the spirit of collaboration and mutual learning that defined the day.

Yogyakarta, May 21, 2025 – The Korean Language and Culture Study Program, Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), held a public lecture entitled “Sugianto’s Heroic Action in the Great Fire Crisis in Korea” on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at 11:00 AM.

The public lecture featured Prof. Yang Seung Yoon, a prominent scholar in Korean history and culture, as the keynote speaker. In his presentation, Prof. Yang shared a moving true story about the bravery of an Indonesian citizen named Sugianto, who was involved in a major fire crisis in Korea. The story not only portrayed extraordinary humanity but also highlighted how a foreign national could make a meaningful contribution during a cross-national crisis.

The session was highly interactive, with Prof. Yang weaving in historical narratives, the geography of Korea, and the human values that formed the core of his lecture.

Following the lecture, the event continued with the awarding of scholarships from KAGAMA Korea to eleven students of the Korean Language and Culture Study Program. This scholarship represents the alumni’s concern and support for advancing the education of younger generations, especially those who show dedication and commitment to Korean studies.

To conclude the event, Prof. Yang Seung Yoon presented books on Korean history to the attendees. The books symbolize a commitment to supporting intercultural learning and serve as valuable references for the students. After the book presentation, Prof. Yang left the audience with a memorable message: “Never stop reading.” This simple yet meaningful remark inspired all participants to continue expanding their knowledge through literacy.

This event not only strengthened the bonds between academia, alumni, and the Korea–Indonesia community, but also formed part of a broader effort to foster global academic collaboration and promote quality education through intercultural knowledge exchange.

[Bachelor of Korean Language and Culture, Nisa Khairuna Sabilla]

Yogyakarta, 22 May 2025 – The Faculty of Cultural Sciences (FIB) at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) held an insightful event titled “Young Lecturers’ Dialogue.” The event took place in Soegondo Building, Room 709, and aimed to foster collaboration among early-career lecturers while addressing the opportunities and challenges they face in their academic careers. The Dean of FIB officially opened the event, highlighting the importance of education in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in promoting quality education and lifelong learning opportunities for all.

The event showcased the diverse profiles of FIB lecturers, noting their academic backgrounds and varied research interests. This diversity is vital to creating a dynamic academic environment that encourages innovation and collaboration. One of the key topics discussed during the event was the professional development of early-career lecturers. Monitoring the progress of advanced study programmes for lecturers was also a central point of discussion. The need for a supportive environment that promotes continuous learning and professional growth was emphasised, as it aligns with the SDG goal of ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education and fostering partnerships to achieve shared objectives.

The discussion also introduced the “Accelerated Doctorate and Professorship Programme,” designed to support the academic advancement of young lecturers. This initiative seeks to provide resources and assistance to those pursuing higher degrees, ensuring they can contribute more effectively to the academic community. The programme addresses the urgent need for qualified educators across disciplines, thereby enhancing the overall quality of education at FIB UGM.

However, the journey toward a successful academic career is not without its challenges. Participants discussed various obstacles, including limited research funding, publication pressure, and the need for work-life balance. These challenges can hinder the progress of young academics and affect their motivation and job satisfaction. To address these issues, the dialogue focused on strategies and institutional-level solutions. As the event progressed, participants engaged in lively discussions and a Q&A session. These interactive segments allowed young lecturers to voice their concerns and seek advice from peers and senior faculty members. The exchange of ideas and experiences fostered a sense of community and solidarity among participants.

In conclusion, “Young Lecturers’ Dialogue” at FIB UGM served as a platform to address the opportunities and challenges faced by early-career educators. By encouraging collaboration and open communication, the event aimed to empower young lecturers to navigate their academic paths successfully. The insights gained from this dialogue will undoubtedly contribute to ongoing efforts to enhance the quality of education at Universitas Gadjah Mada and support the broader objectives of the Sustainable Development Goals.

[Public Relation Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Bulan Churniati]

Semarang, 18 Mei 2025 —

The Rampoe Student Activity Unit from Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) has successfully secured First Place in the Ratoh Jaroe Competition, part of the Pre-Event series of the Diponegoro Art Competition (DAC) 2025. The event was held on Sunday, May 18, 2025, at the Prof. Soedarto, S.H. Hall, Diponegoro University, Semarang. The competition featured 12 teams from high schools and universities across Central Java and the Special Region of Yogyakarta.

In this event, Rampoe UGM presented a 12-minute Ratoh Jaroe dance performance, involving 17 dancers. The performance captivated the judges with its synchronized movements, strong energy, and vibrant expression of Acehnese cultural heritage, leading Rampoe UGM to achieve first place.

Preparations began on Saturday, May 17, 2025, at 5:00 PM WIB at the Faculty of Cultural Sciences, UGM. The team gathered for a briefing and collective prayer before departing for Semarang by ELF transportation. The group arrived at the homestay at 9:30 PM WIB to rest.

The next morning, Sunday, May 18, the team began preparations at 4:00 AM and departed for the venue at 7:10 AM WIB, arriving at the Prof. Soedarto Hall at 7:30 AM WIB. Upon arrival, the team was directed backstage for preparation and stage blocking sessions.

Rampoe UGM was scheduled to perform fourth, with a performance slot at 9:50 AM WIB. After performing, all participants engaged in icebreaking activities and informal gatherings organized by the committee.

The announcement of winners took place at 1:00 PM WIB, where Rampoe UGM was officially declared the First Place winner of the Ratoh Jaroe competition. This proud achievement is a testament to the team’s dedication and rigorous preparation process.

This victory underscores Rampoe UGM’s continued commitment to preserving and promoting Acehnese cultural arts, particularly the Ratoh Jaroe dance, on a broader stage.

Editor : Public Relation of Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Muhammad Ebid El Hakim