Yogyakarta, 10/3/2025 – The Department of Anthropology is once again offering a special opportunity for its students by hosting joint classes with Professor Emeritus Sabine Troeger from the University of Bonn. This time, Professor Sabine is introducing two new courses:

• “Healthy Environment in the Era of Anthropocene: Human-Nature Relation, When Humans Have Become the Dominant Force Shaping Earth’s Bio-Physical Composition and Processes”
• “The Good Tourist—Images and Interpretation on the Side of the Visited Agents, Communities, and Individuals in Jogja Environments.”

Just like previous courses, these will follow a block system, with alternating schedules between the two classes. Running from February to April, the classes are open to both undergraduate and graduate students of Anthropology. More than just theoretical discussions, the program also includes a four-day fieldwork experience, where students will apply the PRA (Participatory, Reflection, and Action) method in real-world settings.

In the first half of the course, students will dive into PRA methodology and explore Bourdieu’s theory of habitus, which serves as a key foundation in community empowerment practices. The sessions are designed to be interactive, with Professor Sabine constantly encouraging students to actively engage in discussions and share their perspectives.

As the course progresses into the second half, things get even more dynamic. Learning moves beyond the classroom, and students head out into the field. Over four full days, they will interact directly with local communities, observe social dynamics firsthand, and put the PRA method into practice in real-life situations. This hands-on experience not only deepens their understanding but also offers valuable reflection on how theory and practice can come together to create sustainable empowerment initiatives.

This class is more than just an academic space—it is a platform for broadening perspectives and critical reflection. By combining theory, practice, and a human-centered approach, this course provides an invaluable learning experience for every participant.

[Public Relations of Cultural Anthropology, Daiva Keefe Kalimasadha]

Yogyakarta, 26/2/2025 – Faculty of Cultural Sciences UGM held Mangayubagya Wisudawan Wisudawati Undergraduate Programme Period II Academic Year 2024/2025 for 113 graduates and graduates from various study programmes. This event was held at the auditorium on the 7th floor of Soegondo Building, Faculty of Cultural Sciences. The event was also attended by representatives from each department and study programme at the Faculty of Cultural Sciences.

The event began with the singing of Indonesia Raya, Mars Gadjah Mada, and Mars Sastra by Paramadaya. After that the event continued with remarks by the Deputy Dean for Finance, Assets, and Human Resources, Suray Agung Nugroho, S.S., M.A., Ph.D. At this graduation, Devi Ayu Lisdiana from the English Literature study programme got the opportunity to be a representative of graduates to give remarks. After the speech session ended, there was a session of handing over diplomas and academic transcripts to graduates and graduates given by representatives of each study programme. This session went smoothly with a group photo of each study programme at the end of the handover process. The event was closed by reading a prayer together by Mr Hamdan, S.S., M.A.

[Public Relation Faculty of Cultural Sciences UGM, Nisrina Nadhira]

Yogyakarta, 17/2/2025 – Studying and understanding ancient manuscripts may sound complicated to some people. However, in the Codicology course taught by Dr. Sri Ratna Saktimulya, M. Hum., we can understand it better from a fun side!

Codicology itself is a course that focuses on the science of dealing with the physical condition of manuscripts. So basically here, students will study the physical condition of manuscripts in terms of materials, size, paper and everything related to the physical nature of the manuscript, as well as the elements in the text, such as illumination, stamps, script, and others.

On Monday, February 17, 2025, Mrs. Sakti entered the Codicology class bringing a new learning method for students. In this second meeting, students conducted a case study. The case given was the analysis of a manuscript. However, what was different here was the object of study. The object that became the example of the manuscript was the student himself.

There were 5 students who were chosen to be the ‘objects of study’, while their friends formed groups to discuss and analyze each of the objects. The things that were asked to be described included manuscripts, texts, and history.

An example of the requested script analysis is a physical description of the object of study. For example, in that day’s meeting, according to the ‘script’, the object had curly hair, was 165 cm tall, had narrow eyes, had brown skin, and so on. Then in text, students could describe that the object was shy, kind, liked to show off, and so on. Finally, historically, students were asked to mention the life journey of ‘the script’ such as year of birth, parents, home address, age, and et cetera.

By imagining things like this, students can understand better how to analyze and describe scripts more concretely. And in the future, students are expected to be more enthusiastic about dissecting Javanese Literature scripts so that the essence of the script can be conveyed to the public.

[Public Relation of Javanese Literature, Fega Achillea Maydena]

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, 24/2/2025 – In the series of anniversary of Faculty of Cultural Sciences (FIB) Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), a scientific oration and public lecture titled ‘Welcoming Eight Decades of Work to Build World Civilisation’ was held on 24 February 2025. The event took place at Soegondo Auditorium, gathering academics, students, and culture lovers to discuss the important role of education in building peace and resolving conflicts.

The event began with a speech from the Vice Rector for Education and Teaching, Prof. Dr Wening Udasmoro, S.S., M.Hum., DEA. In her speech, she emphasised the importance of education as a tool for conflict resolution and cultural diplomacy as she did in her researches. After the speech, the Dean of the Faculty, Prof. Dr Setiadi, M.Si., took the stage to explain the Faculty’s role in the humanities. He pointed out that the humanities play an important role in shaping a more peaceful society by promoting critical thinking and empathy among students.

The highlight of the event was a scientific oration delivered by Dr (H.C) Drs. H. Muhammad Jusuf Kalla, a leading figure in Indonesian politics and diplomacy. In his speech, he discussed the historical context of cultural diplomacy and its impact on peacebuilding efforts. He argued that understanding cultural differences is crucial in resolving conflicts and that education plays an important role in this process.

The session was followed by an engaging discussion involving participants from various backgrounds, including students, faculty members, and cultural practitioners. The audience asked questions about the practical application of cultural diplomacy in contemporary conflicts and the role of educational institutions in promoting peace. The discussion emphasised the need for collaborative efforts in facing global challenges through education.

As the event drew to a close, participants expressed their appreciation for the insights shared by the speakers. Many stressed the importance of continuing this kind of dialogue to foster a culture of peace and understanding. The event not only celebrated the Faculty’s achievements over the past eight decades but also affirmed its commitment to contribute to global civilisation through education and cultural diplomacy.

In the context of the SDGs, the event served as a reminder of the interconnections between education, peace and conflict resolution. It highlighted the role of educational institutions in shaping future leaders who are prepared to face the complexities of a diverse world. The discussions held during this event will surely inspire further initiatives aimed at promoting peace through education.

Overall, the scientific oration and public lecture at FIB UGM was a resounding success, gathering a community dedicated to the ideals of cultural diplomacy and peace. As the world faces increasing challenges, the role of education in fostering understanding and resolving conflict has never been more important.

[Public Relations Faculty of Cultural Sciences UGM, Bulan Churniati]