Amid the surge of technology and the rise of artificial intelligence capable of arranging sentences neatly, Kumala–student of Arabic Literature–chose writing as her path of expression and contribution. “AI-generated writing may be neat, but the emotion and meaning can only come from humans,” she said.

For Kumala, being a student of Arabic Literature is not just about reading classical works or understanding the Arabic language in depth, but also about learning how to voice stories powerfully. Content writing became the medium she chose to bridge theory with practice. She believes that good writing can serve as a bridge connecting emotion, information, and action.

From Interest to Action: How Kumala Began Writing Content

Kumala’s interest in content writing grew alongside her curiosity about the creative process behind content itself. For her, the brainstorming stage is the most crucial. “That’s where it all starts–before the visuals and editing, there’s an idea that needs to be packaged attractively and powerfully,” she explained.

Kumala also brings her academic passion for literature into the world of content. One of her favorite courses is Geoculture and Geopolitics of the Middle East, which opened her eyes to major issues that could be conveyed through writing. “One day, I want to write content that acts as a catalyst to voice issues in the Middle East,” she added.

First Steps at UNAI and Valuable Lessons from One Piece of Content

Although she’s still new to her role as a content writer at UNAI, Kumala has already experienced the challenges of this world. She started by writing carousel content for Instagram, a format that may seem simple but demands high precision. Her biggest challenge? “Finding ideas that are relevant, trending, and emotionally engaging enough to capture the audience’s attention. It’s not easy, but it’s very rewarding,” she said.

Of all the content she has created, her first piece remains the most memorable, not just because it was the first, but because she had to carefully listen to a speaker with an American accent, filter out many sentences, and condense them into a single impactful paragraph. “That’s where I learned how to craft a sentence that truly ‘says something’,” she shared.

The Content Writer as a Communication Bridge

According to Kumala, the role of a content writer is crucial within an institution. “At UNAI, content writing is part of the communications department. So we don’t just create content, we deliver the institution’s messages, vision, and values to the public,” she explained. This shows that good writing isn’t just about aesthetics, it’s also about strategy.

A Message to Students: Dare to Step Outside Your Comfort Zone

Amid her academic and non-academic commitments, Kumala continues to strive to stay motivated. She holds on to one principle: “The life we live today is the dream we had yesterday. So make the most of it and live it wholeheartedly.”

For students who still hesitate to explore beyond their field of study, Kumala has a message: “Being different isn’t bad. Try as many new things as possible, as long as they don’t harm others or yourself. Don’t reach old age with regret, be a youth who explores, and an elder with stories to tell.”

In this digital era, Kumala believes it’s essential for students to equip themselves with various skills. “We don’t know which skill will open the door to our future career. So don’t be afraid to explore. Technology may be advanced, but we humans must be even more advanced.”

And for fellow Arabic Literature students interested in content writing, Kumala ends with one practical tip: “Write what you think. Set small milestones for your skill development so you don’t get stuck in one place and can keep growing.”

[Public Relations of FIB UGM, Candra Solihin]

Yogyakarta, 17/6/2025 – The Dean of the Faculty of Cultural Sciences—Prof. Dr. Setiadi, S.Sos., M.Si.—welcomed the delegation from the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, Padjadjaran University, during the benchmarking visit of FISIP Unpad to the Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada (FIB UGM). The event was held offline at the Margono Building, FIB UGM, in an atmosphere full of collaborative spirit and kinship.

This benchmarking activity was attended directly by the Dean of FISIP Unpad—Prof. Dr. Mohammad Benny Alexandri, S.E., M.M.—along with his entourage and warmly received by the Dean and Vice Deans of FIB UGM.

In his remarks, the Dean of FIB UGM presented various strategic programs currently being implemented by the faculty, including INCULS (Indonesian Culture and Language Program for Foreign Learners), one of FIB UGM’s initiatives in internationalization and in promoting the Indonesian language and culture to the world.

The Dean of FIB UGM also explained that the faculty offers complementary courses to fulfill students’ credit requirements, including practice-based courses such as soft skills and cultural practices. These are designed not only to enhance students’ theoretical understanding but also to develop their practical skills in the field.

On the same occasion, he also mentioned that an academic event from one of FIB UGM’s study programs—the Archaeology Exhibition—was being held as part of the learning program.

Furthermore, the discussion also touched upon the partnerships and cooperation networks that FIB UGM has established with various international universities. These networks continue to expand through mobility programs, student exchanges, collaborative research, and programs for teaching the Indonesian language and culture to foreign speakers.

The benchmarking visit concluded with a warm discussion and exchange of ideas between the two institutions, with the hope of opening up new opportunities to improve the quality of education within the faculties.

[Public Relations of FIB UGM, Candra Solihin]

K-Lit UGM, supported by the Literature Translation Institute of Korea (LTI Korea), organized a Korean literary translation workshop for 16 students of the Korean Language and Culture Study Program, Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada. This year, the workshop focused on translating the novel “아주 희미한 빛으로도 (A Very Faint Light Though)” by Choi Eunyoung, a South Korean novelist known for her poetic and meaningful works.

Each participant received a complimentary copy of the novel as the main translation material. Following last year’s online format, this year’s workshop was held offline at the Soegondo Building, Faculty of Cultural Sciences, UGM. Sessions were conducted twice a week, each lasting one hour, and were facilitated by lecturer Ms. Feby.

In a separate interview, Hada, one of the workshop participants, shared her impression: “This was a very valuable experience. Thank you for organizing this workshop.” Another participant, Eunike, added, “At first, I was hesitant to join the workshop because I had no experience in translation. But it turned out to be more enjoyable than I expected.”

To conclude the series of activities, K-Lit UGM plans to invite the author herself, Choi Eunyoung, for a meet-the-author session and official closing of the workshop in August. The event will be open to the public. Don’t miss this special opportunity to meet one of Korea’s most prominent contemporary writers!

[Author: Sherina Azmi]

Yogyakarta, 28/5/2025 — Thirteen students from the Arabic Study Program at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) participated in the Period III Undergraduate Graduation Ceremony for the 2024/2025 academic year. Among them, Muhammad Ghazi Al Ghifari earned the distinction of being the fastest graduate in the Faculty of Cultural Sciences (FIB), completing his degree in just 3 years, 6 months, and 12 days.

The announcement was made by the Dean of FIB, Prof. Dr. Setiadi, M.Si., during the Mangayubagya Graduation Ceremony held on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, at 1:00 PM in the Soegondo Auditorium. In the heartfelt event, Al Ghifari also delivered a speech on behalf of the graduates. He expressed his gratitude to everyone who had supported the graduating students and encouraged his peers to uphold integrity and apply the knowledge gained during their time at university.

Originally from Petaling Banjar Village, Bangka Regency, Bangka Belitung Province, Al Ghifari was admitted to the Arabic Study Program on May 25, 2021, through the Penelusuran Bibit Unggul Berprestasi Seni (Special Admission for Artistic Talent). After completing seven semesters, he defended his undergraduate thesis on February 12, 2025, titled “The Quality of DeepL Translations in Translating Fictional Texts from Arabic to Indonesian”. He officially graduated with a GPA of 3.93 and earned his Bachelor of Arts (S.S.) degree on February 28, 2025, at the age of 21 years and 6 months.

Al Ghifari noted that there was no special formula behind his academic achievement. “I simply committed to writing my thesis every day—even if it was just a paragraph—and consulted with my advisor weekly,” he said. The consistent support of his parents was also a major motivation for completing his studies swiftly and preparing to pursue a master’s degree.

He also praised the Arabic Study Program at UGM as an ideal environment to study the Arabic language, literature, and culture. The program holds national and international accreditation and is supported by a team of highly qualified and professional lecturers. Al Ghifari hopes the program will continue to grow in quality and reputation on the global stage.

Looking ahead, Al Ghifari is determined to pursue a master’s degree with a focus on Middle Eastern political, economic, and cultural issues.

Author: Muhammad Ghazi Al Ghifari

“As a child, I always wondered: why is it that when I can think of something, others may not? And vice versa, others can come up with ideas that have never crossed my mind. Over time, I realized that every person possesses a unique way of thinking and their own kind of intelligence.”

This simple yet profound reflection has become the foundation for the inspiring journey of Noveza Prima Prasta, a second-semester student of Arabic Literature at the Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM). Her path has led her into the heart of education—not merely as someone who teaches, but as someone who learns from life and the children she meets along the way.

Seeing the World Through a Child’s Eyes

At a young age, Noveza has actively immersed herself in various educational volunteer programs. Her firm belief that understanding a child’s reality and mindset is the first step toward change has shaped her journey. She has been involved in communities such as Rumah Mengajar UGM, Elbom, Arabic Camp, and TPA Al Akhdor. These experiences have taught her more than just how to instruct; they’ve revealed the beauty of character diversity, hope, and the limitless ways children perceive the world.

“Every time I engage with children from different environments, I learn one thing: no intelligence is greater than another. There are simply different brain functions and different life experiences,” she shared.

Education Beyond the Classroom

Noveza’s commitment to education goes far beyond academic content. She actively participates in inclusive educational initiatives like Sekolah Rakyat Serdadu Kumbang, where she emphasizes empathy and inclusivity in every learning session. She recognizes that education is not just about delivering materials—it’s about taking a stand, being present, and showing genuine care.

“Many children just need to be heard, appreciated, and assured that they are capable,” she said.

Her approach is not limited to being a teacher; she chooses to be a learning companion—one who listens to each whisper from a child’s heart, one who validates their silent hopes.

The Right to Learn, the Right to Be Understood

Throughout her journey, Noveza has often encountered a touching reality: many Indonesian children still lack access to learning spaces that honor their individual thinking styles and intelligence. She sees firsthand that every child has unique strengths. Some shine in logic, others in art; some blossom in discussion, while others thrive on emotional connection.

Unfortunately, a rigid, results-oriented education system often fails to embrace this diversity. Many students are left behind—not because they are incapable, but because their learning needs are unmet.

“Sometimes, I meet children who are labeled ‘slow’ at school. But when I engage them through play-based learning, they absorb information rapidly,” she explained. “The problem isn’t with the children—it lies in the approach that doesn’t yet accommodate all kinds of learners.”

A Life Devoted to Empowerment

For Noveza, volunteering is not a hobby—it’s a calling. She dreams of one day building a community learning center for marginalized children—a safe, joyful space where learning feels natural, stress-free, and full of warmth. In her view, consistent small actions, no matter how modest, can become beacons of hope in a world full of challenges.

One quote she holds dear encapsulates her mission: “العلم نور”—knowledge is light.

Her story reminds us that education should never be confined to walls, tests, or rigid systems. Instead, it must grow into a dynamic force that meets children where they are. For Noveza, every child—regardless of background—deserves an equitable, understanding space to grow. And in that space, the spark of learning becomes a light that never fades.

[Public Relations FIB UGM, Candra Solihin]