Yogyakarta, November 14, 2024 – Faculty of Cultural Sciences (FIB) Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) enthusiastically welcomed the working visit of Department of Indonesian Literature, Faculty of Arts, Universitas Hasanuddin (Unhas) on November 12-13, 2024. This visit is part of the efforts to implement the cooperation between the two faculties, which covers the fields of education, research, and community service.

This activity is an important momentum for FIB UGM to strengthen synergies and explore new collaboration opportunities with Unhas. The main discussion focused on the development of the BIPA (Indonesian Language for Foreign Speakers) curriculum and the formulation of joint program implementation strategies that are expected to improve the quality of teaching and student learning experiences.

The team from Unhas who attended this working visit was led by Dr. Munira Hasjim, S.S., M.Hum, Head of the Indonesian Literature Department, accompanied by Prof. Dr. Nurhayati, M.Hum, and Dr. Inriati Lewa, M.Hum. Their presence was warmly welcomed by the lecturers and academic staff of FIB UGM, as well as representatives of the Indonesian Language and Literature Study Program.

The Dean of the Faculty said that this visit was a form of the Faculty’s commitment to continue to open itself to innovative and mutually beneficial cooperation. “We really appreciate the arrival of the team from Unhas. This is a real step to implement programs that can support the achievement of the main performance indicators of the faculty, as well as strengthen collaboration between faculties,” he said.

In addition to discussions on BIPA, this visit was also a forum to exchange views related to challenges and opportunities in the development of education and research in the field of language and literature. With this meeting, FIB UGM is optimistic that it can build a more solid collaboration with FIB Unhas, which in turn will enrich academic experience and expand networks in the field of Indonesian language and literature studies.

Yogyakarta, November 6, 2024 – Faculty of Cultural Sciences Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) received a visit from Majapahit Technology Islamic Boarding School and SMAK Penabur Harapan Indah on Wednesday morning. The event held at the Auditorium on the 7th floor of Soegondo Building was attended by around 190 students, consisting of 100 students from Majapahit Technology Islamic Boarding School and 90 students from SMAK Penabur Harapan Indah, along with accompanying teachers.

The visit was warmly welcomed by representatives of undergraduate and postgraduate students as well as staff of Public Relations and Cooperation of FIB UGM. In their remarks, teacher representatives from both schools expressed the purpose of their visit, which was to introduce students to the UGM campus environment and explore information about educational opportunities at the Faculty of Arts.

The question and answer session was interactive, with student representatives from Majapahit Technology Islamic Boarding School asking what technology is used in studying culture and the existence of a double degree program at FIB. Meanwhile, student representatives from SMAK Penabur Harapan Indah focused more on asking about the job prospects of graduates and how FIB graduates can compete with other faculties in the world of work.

The event ended with the handover of souvenirs from both schools to FIB UGM, followed by a group photo session. This moment was closed with a casual conversation between students and students, creating an atmosphere of intimacy before the group left the room. This visit is expected to motivate students to continue their higher education at UGM, especially at the Faculty of Cultural Sciences.

Yogyakarta, November 6, 2024 – Faculty of Cultural Sciences (FIB) Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) received a visit from 280 students and accompanying teachers from SMAN 2 Cikarang Pusat. The event took place in the Auditorium on the 7th floor of Soegondo Building, and was warmly welcomed by representatives of undergraduate and postgraduate students as well as staff of Public Relations and Cooperation of FIB UGM.

In his speech, one of the teacher representatives expressed her gratitude for the friendly and enthusiastic welcome. “This visit is very impressive. We feel welcomed with a warm and pleasant atmosphere,” she said.

The question and answer session was interactive, discussing various aspects of the entry process to UGM. The students asked about various things, such as preparation for entrance tests, special portfolios, and the effect of school accreditation or alumni on graduation. The representative of the Faculty of Arts UGM explained that no special portfolio is needed, school accreditation does not affect the chances, and influential alumni are not a determining factor for graduation.

In addition, the discussion also covered the professions and careers of graduates, alumni who have successfully pursued careers in various fields, and how the faculty shapes students to face future professional challenges.

The event was closed with the handover of souvenirs, group photos, and casual conversations between students and faculty members that strengthened the atmosphere of intimacy. This activity is expected to motivate students to continue their studies to a higher level, especially at the Faculty of Humanities UGM.

Yogyakarta, October 30, 2024 – Faculty of Cultural Sciences Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) welcomed a visit from 270 students from MAN Bondowoso and SMAN 8 Garut in the Auditorium of Soegondo Building 7th Floor. This event was an opportunity for the students to get to know more about academic life at UGM and opportunities to study at the Faculty of Cultural Sciences (FIB).

The event was opened with remarks from the Faculty’s Public Relations and Cooperation team, which consists of five unit staff, including part-timer students. In the question and answer session, students and teachers were enthusiastic with many questions, ranging from the benefits and opportunities of studying at FIB, tips on building confidence to enter top universities, to the percentage of new student admissions in each pathway.

The students also asked about broader issues, such as policies related to UKT (Single Tuition Fee), campus response to mental health, and efforts to handle sexual violence cases. Public Relations gave a comprehensive explanation, emphasizing UGM’s commitment to providing a safe and supportive learning environment.

The event ended with the handover of souvenirs from each school, a group photo session, and a spirited yell match between MAN Bondowoso and SMAN 8 Garut, concluding an inspiring and fun-filled visit.

The Arabic Language & Literature Study Program of the Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) has successfully held the ‘Festival of Arabic Culture (FKA) 2024’ which took place from 18 to 20 October 2024. This annual festival is a celebration of Arabic culture with a series of interesting events, such as national level competitions, FKA Talks, Arabic Market Day, and the “Arabian Night” theater performance. 

# FKA 2024 National Competition

The national competition held on October 18, 2024 involved participants from various categories, ranging from high school students to university students and the general public. This competition aims to spur the enthusiasm of the younger generation in mastering the Arabic language and culture. The categories contested include:

1. SMA/MA/equivalent category:  

   – Taqdimul Qishoh (Storytelling)  

   – Arabic Language Olympiad  

   – Calligraphy  

2. Student Category:  

   – Arabic Debate  

   – Presentation Essay  

3. General Category:  

   – Musabaqah Qira’atul Kutub (MQK) 3.  

   – Videography (conducted online)

# Arabic Market Day: A Celebration of Taste and Music

From October 19 to 20, 2024, “Arabic Market Day” enlivens the atmosphere with a bazaar featuring a variety of Middle Eastern delicacies. The event came alive with musical performances from local bands that entertained visitors throughout the day. The food and beverage stalls were packed with participants and the general public who wanted to get a taste of the Arabic market.

# FKA Talks: Inspiration from Outstanding Students

One of the most anticipated events was “FKA Talks”, held on October 19, 2024 at Soegondo Building, Faculty of Arts UGM. With the theme *”Ideas and Perspectives of Students with Character towards Development and Change in the Era of Disruption ”*, five talented students provided insights related to social, psychology, and education. Their innovative ideas and critical perspectives were enthusiastically welcomed by the participants, creating an in-depth discussion on the challenges and opportunities in this modern era.

# Theater “Arabian Night”: The Starry Story of the Sahara

The festival concluded with a spectacular theater performance of “Arabian Night” that took place on the evening of October 20, 2024. Set under a starry sky, the performance blends Arabian culture and the local richness of the archipelago. The theme “Gemintang Padang Sahara di Ambara Nusantara” successfully brought the audience into a magical and enchanting atmosphere, with a message of friendship and togetherness packaged in a captivating storyline.

The event was the culmination of the 2024 Arab Cultural Festival celebrations, which not only celebrated cultural diversity but also connected various elements of creativity and achievement at the national level. With great enthusiasm from participants and visitors alike, the 2024 Arab Cultural Festival once again demonstrated the important role culture plays in strengthening relationships across communities and promoting pride in diversity.