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 – 24/2/25 In order to encourage the study of Indonesian art archaeology as well as to participate in the field of inclusive education, the scientific division of the Javanese Language, Literature and Culture Student Association (HMJ Kamastawa) collaborates with Artefak Magazine, a publication of the Archaeology Undergraduate Program, Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada (FIB UGM). This collaboration resulted in the 2024 edition of Artifact Magazine which raised a theme entitled “Archaeology of Art.”

The magazine features a variety of interesting content, including a feature article, four scientific papers, six popular scientific papers, three opinions, and four essay photos. The presented material also varies from traditional to contemporary, so that the broad discussion can spark curiosity and open a deeper horizon about art archaeology.

So, what is discussed in this edition? How does art and archaeology relate? If students’ minds have already come up with such questions, there is nothing wrong with visiting the Instagram account @artefak.hima.

The collaboration between two different academic programs—Javanese Language, Literature, and Culture, with Archaeology—is a joint effort to produce critical and in-depth studies of cultural objects. This collaboration not only enriches the educational landscape but also as a form of implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) points, especially in information gathering, innovation, and education, as well as a form of collaboration in realizing quality education, especially in the field of art archaeology.

[Bachelor of Javanese Language, Literature, and Culture UGM, Fega Achillea Maydena]

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]

Entering the Javanese Language, Literature, and Culture Major not only makes students active in learning about Javanese literature and language, but also active in various non-academic activities. With the passion of preserving culture and developing skills outside of class, they are involved in organizations outside the faculty, art communities, and social activities. Their participation in these activities not only increases their insight, but also enriches their experience in understanding and applying Javanese cultural values ​​in everyday life.

Even this year, some of them are not only active as ordinary members, but have ‘moved up a level’ to become responsible persons in various strategic positions. Let’s take a peek at the story!

• Luki Henria Pasadhi (Sasa) — General Secretary of PK IMM UGM

Starting from activities in high school, Sasa joined the Muhammadiyah Student Association (IMM) because she was looking for a Muhammadiyah-based organization in the college environment. Previously, Sasa was a member of the Muhammadiyah Youth Association (IPM). With the aim of maintaining what has been started since high school, Sasa went through a long process as a member of the Media and Communication division until this year Sasa served as the general secretary of IMM for the 2024/2025 period. Sasa hopes that IMM can run as it should, smoothly in carrying out work programs, and can contribute to UGM and the community.

• Abimanyu Mahendra (Abi) — President of UKM Swagayugama

In the 2024 Swagayugama Great Deliberation, Abi took the initiative to nominate himself as the president. Through a long democratic process, finally the forum have agreed to elect Abi as the general chairman of Swagayugama UKM for one year ahead. Abi’s reason for joining Swagayugama UKM was to preserve the Javanese culture of Yogyakarta. He felt obliged to do so, especially since he himself came from Yogyakarta. Abi has served as the coordinator of the pedhalangan competency test, as a talent during grand performances, as a dhalang talent, a dance drama talent, and even as a talent to perform at the Kraton Ngayogyakarta Hadiningrat. Abi’s hope in his management is to improve what is lacking, and maintain what is already good.

• Yanuar Agung Nugroho (Yanuar) — President of UKM UKJGS

Having a background related to arts, Yanuar was enthusiastic about joining the UGM Surakarta Style Javanese Arts Unit (UKJGS). Within a year, he was dynamically involved in many arts activities carried out by UKJGS such as Gladhi Madya, various performances including the Prambanan Ramayana ballet, the New Year’s Eve gamelan parade, and so on. In these activities, Yanuar actively played a role as a talent before finally being trusted to become the general chairman of the 2024/2025 management. Yanuar was chosen from the results of voting at the 2024 UKJGS Great Conference.

• Juneffa Rizka Maharani (June) — Chief Financial Officer of E-Sport UGM

June was chosen as the Chief Financial Officer for E-Sport UGM because the previous chairman saw June as a responsive person. Over the past year, June has participated in several events and has been the manager of two PUBG teams. As the head of finance, her future duties include monitoring the work of the treasurer and sponsorship. June hopes that in the future she can divide her time between E-Sport activities, department associations, or other activities.

• Alma Syahwalani (Alma) — Head of Public Relations Marching Band UGM

Initially in the UGM Marching Band, Alma held a flag instrument where the section was called Color Guard. After a process of approximately one year, Alma was chosen to become the Head of Public Relations at the UGM Marching Band through interviews and also a deliberation system. On December 18, 2024, Alma was inaugurated with other new administrators. During her time in the marching band, Alma diligently attended routine practices and performed a lot inside and outside UGM. The Color Guard Section even received the title of Player of The Year. Alma’s hope for the future is to continue to improve her soft skills and hard skills and also to be able to create wider networks and relationships.

• Audrey Gizella Islamey (Audrey) — Head of Costume Division Swagayugama

Regarding Audrey’s election as Head of Costume Division, there were two influencing factors. First, because of the recommendation from the previous division head. In addition, because the candidate for the head of UKM Swagayugama directly chose Audrey to fill the position of head of costume division. During her time at UKM Swagayugama, Audrey diligently attended routine training, sometimes also involved as a talent in several performances, such as Pentas Kraton, Pagelaran Akbar Swagayugama, and several other incidental performances. In addition, during her time as a member of the costume division, she was involved several times as a person in charge for taking care of the costumes of the talents. Audrey hopes that by joining UKM Swagayugama and studying in the Javanese Language, Literature, and Culture study program, both can go hand in hand so that they always foster a sense of love and pride in local culture and ignite the spirit to participate in efforts to preserve culture.

• M. Rafi Nur Fauzy (Rafi) — Head of the Karawitan and Pedalangan Division UKJGS

Based on his competence, performance, and experience during the previous one year of membership, the previous manager recommended Rafi to become the Head of the Karawitan and Pedhalangan Division in the UKJGS management in 2024/2025. During his time at UKJGS, Rafi had been the coordinator of routine pedhalangan training, the coordinator of pedhalangan Gladhi Madya , the event committee at Gladhi Purwa, the coordinator of karawitan Ambal Warsa  UKJGS, the coordinator of Ramayana Ballet Prambanan karawitan, and others. Rafi hopes to be able to improve his academic achievements for this semester and in the future. And for UKJGS, Rafi hopes to be able to maintain and improve his quality and good name both inside and outside the university.

• M. Rizki Saputro (Rizki) — Head of Facilities and Infrastructure Division UKJGS

Rizki became the Head of the Facilities Division because he was appointed by the president of UKJGS. His goal in accepting the mandate was to take the opportunity to learn to become a division head in the organization. During his time at UKJGS, Rizki actively participated in various committees, including Gladhi Madya equipment coordinator, Gladhi Purwa security staff, Ambal Warsa equipment staff, Ramayana equipment staff, and is currently the Ramayana equipment coordinator. In addition, Rizki is also a talent at Gladhi Madya and the Faculty of Philosophy Karawitan Festival as a kenong player. Rizki’s hope for UKJGS in the future is that it will continue to develop and innovate in preserving Javanese culture.

• Fega Achillea Maydena (Fega) — General Secretary of Unit Selam UGM

Starting from her interest in the underwater world, Fega decided to register for the UGM Diving Society. During the training period and after being inaugurated as an official member, Fega routinely participated in various agendas held by the UGM Diving Society. So that at the end of 2024, Fega won the title of Member of The Year as a form of appreciation for her active participation. In the future, Fega hopes to continue to be able to balance academic and non-academic life, and continue to develop herself into a more skilled person.

From the writing above, we can conclude that being a student of Javanese Language, Literature, and Culture does not prevent us from developing our potential in other fields. Some are in the arts, sports, and even religion. By knowing these stories, it is hoped that readers will also have the spirit to continue to develop themselves and fly high in the fields they are engaged in.

[Public Relation Javanese Literature FIB UGM, Fega Achillea Maydena]

No less than other well-known study programs, it turns out that being a student of Javanese Language, Literature, and Culture can also carry pride and inspire other people around! For example, Dian Nitami (Dian) and Miktahul Ulumudin (Ulum) below. Both are students majoring in Javanese Language, Literature, and Culture, class of 2023 and 2024.

Dian and Ulum were invited to the annual Campus Expo event held by the MAN 1 Tulungagung alumni association, through the Tulungagung Student Communication Forum (FKMT). This Campus Expo was held on Wednesday, January 15, 2025 at MAN 1 Tulungagung. Like Campus Expo events in general, here Dian and Ulum are in charge of educating and sharing experiences about being UGM students. They discussed topics around UGM entrance selection, college fee education, KIP scholarships, and a glimpse of UGM itself.

The Campus Expo itself was attended by 1st – 3rd year, but the seminar session was specifically attended by 3rd year where the class was certainly preparing for the exam to enter college. Dian was invited to be one of the speakers because she was one of the lucky students who had the opportunity to study at UGM with funding assisted by a scholarship. So at this event Dian gave a testimonial that scholarships at UGM are very open to students from any entrance selection path.

From Dian and Ulum’s point of view, MAN 1 Tulungagung students were certainly very happy because they could meet their seniors who were studying at UGM. Then the impressive occasion was when the speakers entered, they were greeted with the Pionir celebration song with the enthusiasm of Mantasa (the name for MAN 1 Tulungagung students) overflowing. Even in the closing session, it was enlivened again by the Pionir celebration dance so that this indicated that MAN 1 Tulungagung students were really enthusiastic about participating in this seminar session.

For Dian, the impression gained from this experience was a sense of joy because this was the first time Dian had the opportunity to be a speaker who of course could educate and motivate the MAN students.

With this valuable story from Dian and Ulum, it is hoped that this can be an inspiration for other student to always be able to provide benefits and spread positive enthusiasm to people around them, that being part of the family of Javanese Language, Literature, and Culture students is a pride and not less cool than other majors.

[Public Relation Javanese Literature Faculty of Arts UGM, Fega Achillea Maydena]