Yogyakarta, March 3, 2026 – Coinciding with its 80th anniversary, the Faculty of Cultural Sciences (FIB) at Universitas Gadjah Mada launched a historical book titled Mengeja Waktu Merajut Warna, 80 Tahun Perjalanan Fakultas Ilmu Budaya Universitas Gadjah Mada. The book was presented to the Chair of the FIB Senate, Professor Bambang Hudayana, M.A., and UGM Rector Professor Ova Emilia, Ph.D., as part of an effort to document the faculty’s long journey in developing literary and cultural studies in Indonesia.

The book was written by a team consisting of Abdul Wahid, Tatag Andriawan, Soraya Anugra Lia, and Lenna Aurelia Amalia. Although the writing process was completed within a relatively short period, it is expected to serve as an initial step in reconstructing the institutional history of FIB UGM over the past eight decades.

In the book’s introduction, the authors explain that this work represents an early effort to document more comprehensively the history of the Faculty of Cultural Sciences as one of Indonesia’s oldest higher education institutions in the fields of literature and culture. Through this historical exploration, the book also seeks to understand the meaning behind the transformations experienced by the faculty over time.

“This book is the first attempt to comprehensively reconstruct the 80-year journey of the Faculty of Cultural Sciences as the oldest higher education institution in Indonesia in the field of literature and culture, while also seeking meaning from this long historical process,” the authors wrote.

As a study of institutional history, the book explains the development of the Faculty of Cultural Sciences at UGM as an organization shaped by internal dynamics as well as external changes, including government policies, developments in higher education, and social dynamics. The institutional history approach does not merely record a chronology of events but also explains how an institution evolves and responds to changes over time.

Writing institutional history also plays an important role in preserving institutional memory. This memory includes physical aspects such as buildings, classrooms, organizational structures, and institutional artifacts, as well as non-physical aspects such as norms, rules, and workplace culture that develop within the institution.

For an academic institution, institutional memory has strategic value as it provides a basis for reflection in understanding the formation of collective identity while helping to shape future development.

In its preparation, the book was written chronologically to help readers understand the faculty’s development. The periodization used in the book is based on the changes in the faculty’s name throughout its history.

The discussion is divided into four main chapters. The first chapter covers the early development period from 1946 to 1955. The second chapter discusses the period of the Faculty of Letters and Culture from 1955 to 1982. The third chapter explores the Faculty of Letters period from 1982 to 2001. The fourth chapter discusses the Faculty of Cultural Sciences period from 2001 to 2025.

The authors acknowledge that the book still has limitations and does not yet fully capture the complexity of the faculty’s long history. Therefore, they hope the publication will serve as a starting point for more in-depth research on institutional and academic development within FIB UGM.

“We realize that this book is far from complete, let alone perfect. With humility, we hope it will receive constructive input so that it can be improved in the future,” the authors wrote.

The authors also expressed their gratitude to various parties who supported the writing process, particularly the FIB UGM Dean’s Office for the 2021–2026 period, which entrusted the team with the project.

The publication of this book is expected to serve as a reflection for the academic community to better understand the institution’s journey while strengthening its commitment to advancing knowledge, culture, and academic contributions to society.

[Public Relations of FIB UGM, Candra Solihin]

Yogyakarta, March 3, 2026 – The Faculty of Cultural Sciences at Universitas Gadjah Mada (FIB UGM) marks its 80th anniversary in 2026. This eight-decade journey serves as a moment of reflection as well as a source of hope to continue contributing to the advancement of the humanities. Carrying the theme “Eight Decades of Building Civilization,” this year’s Dies Natalis celebration reaffirms FIB UGM’s commitment to strengthening the role of the humanities in building a knowledgeable, inclusive, and culturally enriched society.

Reaching the age of 80 symbolizes a long journey marked not only by various academic achievements but also by challenges that have been successfully overcome together by the academic community. Over the past eight decades, FIB UGM has continued to develop as one of the main pillars for the advancement of humanities studies in Indonesia. Numerous important achievements have been attained, ranging from improved rankings in the QS World University Rankings and the EduRank ranking in literature, to outstanding study program accreditations and contributions through publications and news coverage that support the implementation of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4: Quality Education and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.

In terms of educational quality, FIB UGM has demonstrated remarkable achievements. In 2025, out of a total of 21 study programs within FIB UGM, 20 study programs received the “Excellent” (Unggul) accreditation from Badan Akreditasi Nasional Perguruan Tinggi (BAN-PT), while the Master’s Program in American Studies obtained an “Excellent” accreditation from Lembaga Akreditasi Mandiri Sosial Politik Administrasi dan Komunikasi (LAMSPAK). In addition, several study programs have gained international recognition through accreditation by global institutions. A total of 10 undergraduate programs and 2 master’s programs have been accredited by ACQUIN with an Unconditional rating, five undergraduate programs and one master’s program have received international certification from ASEAN University Network – Quality Assurance (AUN-QA), while the French Literature Program and the Master’s Program in Linguistics have obtained accreditation from Foundation for International Business Administration Accreditation (FIBAA) with an Unconditional rating.

FIB UGM’s achievements are also reflected in international rankings. Based on the QS World University Rankings by Subject, the Anthropology, Archaeology, and English Literature programs ranked first nationally, with global positions within the 101–170 and 151–200 ranges worldwide. In addition, the fields of Modern Languages, Arts and Humanities, and Linguistics have also been listed in the QS WUR. Meanwhile, in 2025, EduRank ranked the literature field of FIB UGM first among 68 literature education providers in Indonesia. This achievement is a particular source of pride for the Department of Language and Literature, which serves as a driving force for the development of literary studies within FIB UGM.

The commitment to the internationalization of education continues to be strengthened through various student mobility programs. FIB UGM actively promotes Student Exchange and Fast Track programs to broaden students’ academic experiences. In 2025, a total of 31 students participated in the Fast Track Program for the 2024–2025 period, 28 students joined exchange programs with other universities within Indonesia, 16 students took part in the Merdeka Student Exchange Program 2025–2026, and 64 students participated in International Student Exchange programs during the 2024–2026 period.

Through these achievements, FIB UGM reaffirms its commitment to continuously strengthening the quality of education, research, and community service. The eight-decade journey is expected to serve as a strong foundation for FIB UGM to continue contributing to the development of civilization through the humanities, while also supporting the global development agenda through the implementation of SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure) in strengthening research, and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through international academic collaboration.

[Public Relations of FIB UGM, Alma Syahwalani]

The Student Association of the Department of Javanese Language, Literature, and Culture (HMJ Kamastawa) held a handover ceremony for the 2026/2027 management on Monday (06/23/2026) at Poerbatjaraka Building 203, Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Gadjah Mada University. The event was attended by the HMJ Kamastawa executive board for the 2025/2026 and 2026/2027 periods, as well as faculty representatives from the study program.

Also present at the event were the Head of the Javanese Language, Literature, and Culture Study Program, Dr. Sulistyowati, M.Hum., and the advisor to HMJ Kamastawa, Dr. Rudy Wiratama, S.I.P., M.A. The presence of the study program leaders emphasized the program’s support for the continuity of student organizations.

The event began at 4:15 PM and was hosted by Muhammad Bagus Ulinnuha. The series of activities began with the singing of the Indonesian national anthem and the Gadjah Mada hymn.

In his speech, Dr. Rudy Wiratama, S.I.P., M.A. emphasized the importance of maintaining achievements in a positive manner and building the widest possible network. He also advised the administrators to always apply the values of guidance, compassion, and nurturing, both with fellow administrators, seniors, and alumni.

Meanwhile, Dr. Sulistyowati, M.Hum. reminded the administrators to remain resilient in facing the dynamics and challenges of the organization. She emphasized the importance of coordination with lecturers and maintaining a balance between achievement, physical and mental health, and harmonious communication within the management.

The main procession of the event consisted of the reading and signing of the minutes by the Chair of HMJ for the 2025/2026 period, Dwiyan Teguh Darmawan, followed by the symbolic handover of office by the Head of the Study Program. Next, the inauguration script was read by Dr. Rudy Wiratama, S.I.P., M.A., and the oath of office was led by the Chair of HMJ for the 2026/2027 period, Wreksi Awinanggya Pinandhita.

The event then continued with a symbolic handover of positions to the Kamastawa HMJ management, a message and impressions from the 2025/2026 HMJ period, and a speech from the Chair of the 2026/2027 HMJ period. The series of activities was closed with a group photo session to capture the moment of togetherness.

The handover ceremony for the Kamastawa Student Association for the 2026/2027 period is an important moment for the new board to continue and improve the quality of the organization. It is hoped that the new board will be able to implement flagship programs optimally. Thus, HMJ Kamastawa can continue to play an active role, making positive contributions to nguri-uri ‘preserving’ and ngurip-urip ‘revitalizing’ Javanese culture, as well as maintaining the good reputation of the Javanese Language, Literature, and Culture Study Program. Congratulations and success to the HMJ Kamastawa management for the 2026/2027 period.

Author: Haryo Untoro
Editor: Haryo Untoro

Yogyakarta, February 24, 2026 – The Faculty of Cultural Sciences Universitas Gadjah Mada (FIB UGM) held a Soft Skills Training titled “Briefing for Graduating Students and Undergraduates” from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. WIB at the 3rd Floor Auditorium of the Poerbatjaraka Building. The event featured an alumna of the Indonesian Literature Program at FIB UGM and Chair of IWAPI, as well as founder of Bundaco, Erwina Kusmarini, S.S., who shared her experience in identifying business opportunities and building independence after graduation.

In her remarks, Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Cooperation, and Alumni of FIB UGM, Dr. Mimi Savitri, M.A., Ph.D., emphasized the importance of providing students with preparation prior to graduation. “This activity certainly offers valuable preparation and insights for all of you after graduating from FIB UGM,” she said.

The Coordinator for Academic and Student Affairs, Yusuf Sulistiyo, A.Md., S.Psi., M.M., delivered academic announcements before the main session began. The moderator, Dr. phil. Ramayda Akmal, S.S., M.A., then introduced the speaker and presented her brief profile.

In her presentation, Erwina Kusmarini highlighted the theme “The Story of Bundaco and the Spirit of Seizing Opportunities.” She recounted how she started her business in 2004 from her home in Klaten with a single household sewing machine. She began her entrepreneurial journey without a family background in business and without formal education in engineering or economics. Limited capital, networks, and technical skills were among the challenges she faced in the early stages. She learned directly from local tailors, fabric vendors, and the surrounding community to develop her enterprise.

Bundaco, short for Bunda Collection, has grown into a garment manufacturing business producing school uniforms, community apparel, Muslim fashion, and custom orders for institutions and organizations. She emphasized the importance of maintaining quality and service as the foundation for business growth.

When the COVID-19 pandemic struck, production shifted to personal protective equipment and cloth masks to respond to community needs. This innovation sustained the business while expanding its market reach. In the following years, she was entrusted to lead IWAPI Klaten and initiated garment production and digital marketing training programs for hundreds of women-led micro, small, and medium enterprises.

During the question-and-answer session, Erwina encouraged students to be courageous in taking the first step and to continue learning. She stressed that a background in cultural studies is not a barrier to entrepreneurship. Social awareness and the ability to recognize opportunities, she noted, are essential assets in building a business.

The training concluded with the presentation of a token of appreciation from the faculty to the speaker, followed by a group photo session. Through this initiative, FIB UGM seeks to prepare graduates who are adaptive, competitive, and capable of making meaningful contributions to society. Such programs are expected to foster a generation that is not only ready to enter the workforce, but also able to create opportunities and empower their communities in a sustainable manner.

[Humas FIB UGM, Candra Solihin]

Yogyakarta, 24 February 2026 – The Korean Language and Culture Study Program, Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada held a public lecture on Tuesday, 24 February 2026. The event took place following the scholarship award ceremony and was conducted alongside the Academic Korean Language class.

The lecture was delivered by Mr. Ahn Gyeong Hwan, Operations Director of PT. Komitrando. On this occasion, he presented a session titled Work Strategies in Korean Companies in Indonesia and Understanding Workplace Culture, which explored career opportunities in Korean companies, required qualifications, and the dynamics of Korean work culture (K-Work Culture).

Mr. Ahn explained that Indonesia–Korea cooperation is currently entering an increasingly strategic phase, marked by expanding collaboration across various sectors, from manufacturing to finance and information technology. He emphasized that in a professional context, language can be understood as a “tool” that facilitates work processes. While tasks may still be completed without such a tool, possessing the right tool—in this case, Korean language proficiency—makes work more effective, efficient, and value-added.

He further outlined the profile sought by Korean companies: individuals who can serve as a “bridge,” demonstrate strong business communication skills, understand hierarchy and workplace ethics within Korean corporate culture, and exhibit responsibility and teamwork.

In the concluding session, Mr. Ahn shared practical tips on CV preparation, writing a motivation letter, and strategies for job interviews. Students followed the lecture attentively, reflecting strong interest in career opportunities within Korean companies.

Through this public lecture, students gained not only a broader understanding of employment opportunities in Korean companies but also more concrete insight into industry expectations for graduates of Korean Language and Culture. The session is expected to broaden students’ perspectives on career readiness, strengthen awareness of the importance of applicable language competence in business contexts, and encourage continuous professional development. The event thus represents a strategic step in bridging academia and the professional world.

Author: Eunike Serafia N.S