The Arabic Literature Study Program at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) continues to enhance its curriculum by introducing a new course, Saudi Colloquial Arabic, in the second semester of the 2025/2026 academic year. The course is designed to broaden students’ linguistic competence, particularly in understanding and using Arabic as it is spoken in everyday communication within Saudi society. The course is taught by Dr. Raeef Al-Tamimi, M.Acc., a lecturer with extensive expertise and experience in Arabic language studies. His involvement provides students with a valuable opportunity to learn the Saudi dialect in an authentic manner, covering pronunciation, vocabulary, and its practical use in daily interactions.

Through this course, students not only learn common expressions and vocabulary used by native speakers  but also gain insight into the cultural aspects embedded in the language. The learning process is designed to be interactive, incorporating conversation practice, discussions, and various communication simulations that help students use Arabic more naturally and contextually. 

The introduction of the course has received positive responses from students. Adennia, the class coordinator of the Saudi Colloquial Arabic course, shared that the material is relatively easy to follow due to its similarities with Modern Standard Arabic (Fusha), which students have previously studied. “In my opinion, the course is not too difficult because it shares many similarities with Fusha. One challenge is that we sometimes still tend to use sentence-ending grammatical markers, as we do in formal Arabic. There are also certain vocabulary items that can be difficult for Indonesian speakers to pronounce. However, Dr. Raeef often provides alternative expressions that are easier for us to say, which makes the learning process more comfortable and accessible,” she explained.

The introduction of the Saudi Colloquial Arabic course marks an important step in helping students understand the diversity of Arabic as it is used in real-life contexts. Beyond its academic value, proficiency in Arabic dialects can serve as a valuable asset for students pursuing further studies, student exchange programs, or careers in international environments where Arabic is widely spoken. Through this curriculum innovation, the Arabic Literature Study Program at UGM hopes to equip students with a more comprehensive command of Arabic, enabling them to communicate effectively not only in formal settings through Fusha, but also in everyday interactions with native Arabic speakers.

Author: Indana Zulfa Maulida

Two students from the Japanese Language and Culture Study Program of Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), Michelle Anastasia Budiman (Class of 2022) and Listu Prajna Anggana (Class of 2023), have been selected to participate in the Ferris University Exchange Program in Japan. The one-year exchange program commenced in March 2026 and is scheduled to continue until February 2027, providing students with the opportunity to attend classes and deepen their understanding of Japanese language and culture through direct experience.

Through the program, Michelle and Listu will receive various forms of support, including a tuition waiver and scholarship assistance from Ferris University throughout their period of study in Japan. The program is designed to support students’ academic development while encouraging cultural exchange and international engagement.

Ferris University also offers a range of support services for international students, including a mentorship program with Japanese students, academic tutors, and dormitory facilities. Through these opportunities, students are expected to broaden their academic perspectives, strengthen their Japanese language proficiency, and gain valuable intercultural experiences.

The participation of Michelle and Listu in this program reflects the commitment of the Japanese Language and Culture Study Program UGM to encouraging students to take advantage of international opportunities and develop their academic competencies in a global environment.

[Barra Taura Nursaid]

Betari Ardya Febbyaliza, a 2023 student of the Japanese Language and Culture Study Program at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), won Second Place in the Shodou Taikai Isshoni Tanomimashou competition organized online by the Japanese Literature Student Association of the Faculty of Cultural Studies, Universitas Brawijaya. The competition was attended by 29 participants from various universities across Indonesia. The winners were announced through Zoom and the official Isshoni Tanomimashou social media account on Saturday, 23 May 2026. For this achievement, Betari received an e-certificate and a cash award.

In preparation for the competition, Betari received guidance from Akbar Rizqi Dhea Habibi, S.S., M.A., a lecturer of the Japanese Language and Culture Study Program at UGM who also teaches the Shuuji (Japanese Calligraphy) course during the Even Semester of the 2025/2026 Academic Year. The judging criteria included stroke order, the proper use of tomaru, haneru, and harau techniques, the aesthetic quality of the characters, and character proportion.

This achievement reflects the continuous development of BKJ UGM students’ competencies in Japanese language and culture. Through the Shuuji (Japanese Calligraphy) course, students not only learn the techniques of Japanese character writing but also develop an appreciation for the aesthetics, precision, and discipline that form an integral part of Japanese cultural traditions.

[Barra Taura Nursaid]

The Japanese Language and Culture Student Association of Universitas Gadjah Mada (HIMAJE UGM) held a Study Visit Program with the Japanese Language and Culture Student Association of Universitas Diponegoro (HIMAWARI UNDIP) on Saturday, 25 April 2026, at the Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada. Organized by HIMAJE’s Public Relations Division, the program aimed to strengthen relationships among students while providing a platform for exchanging organizational experiences and insights.

The event began with presentations introducing the profiles and grand designs of both student associations, followed by a discussion session on organizational programs and student organization dynamics. In addition to the discussion, participants took part in student performances, interactive games, a plaque exchange ceremony, and a tour of the Faculty of Cultural Sciences UGM. Through this activity, HIMAJE UGM and HIMAWARI UNDIP are expected to further strengthen their relationship and foster future collaborations that will benefit both organizations.

Author: Barra Taura Nursaid

Yogyakarta, May 18, 2026 – The Arabic Language Education Program of Universitas Negeri Jakarta (UNJ) and the Arabic Literature Program of Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) held a study visit at the Faculty of Cultural Sciences, UGM. The activity served as a platform for students from both universities to exchange experiences, broaden their perspectives, and strengthen academic relationships. The event began with the recitation of verses from the Holy Qur’an, followed by the singing of the Indonesian national anthem, the UGM Hymn, and the Universitas Negeri Jakarta March. A warm atmosphere was created through welcoming remarks delivered by student representatives and program leaders from both institutions.

During the main session, students from UNJ presented an overview of their study program, student activities, and various initiatives that have been implemented within their organization. The presentation was enthusiastically received by UGM students, who then shared insights into the academic environment and organizational activities within the Arabic Literature Program at UGM. This session provided an engaging forum for participants to gain a deeper understanding of each institution’s organizational culture and campus life. The event became even more interactive through a question-and-answer session conducted in a relaxed yet productive atmosphere. Various topics were discussed, ranging from the implementation of student programs to strategies for increasing student participation in both academic and non-academic activities. The exchange of ideas and experiences allowed participants to learn from one another and gain new perspectives on student organization management.

More than just an academic visit, this study visit served as an opportunity to strengthen friendships and foster closer ties between the Arabic Language Education Program of UNJ and the Arabic Literature Program of UGM. It is hoped that this activity will become the starting point for broader and more sustainable collaboration in the future, particularly in the areas of academics, student organizations, and student development.

Author: Indana Zulfa Maulida