Yogyakarta, March 3, 2026 – The Faculty of Cultural Sciences (FIB) Universitas Gadjah Mada presented awards to five outstanding members of its academic community during the 80th Anniversary (Dies Natalis) celebration at the FIB UGM Poerbatjaraka Auditorium. This initiative serves as an institutional appreciation for the dedication and achievements of both lecturers and educational staff in advancing science, education, and community development.

In the outstanding lecturer category, FIB UGM presented an award to Dr. Elan Ardri Lazuardi, S.Ant., M.A., from the Anthropology Study Program. Dr. Lazuardi possesses specialized expertise in medical anthropology and public health services. Throughout his career, he has received various prestigious academic recognitions. These include the High-Quality Scientific Article Award in Health and Medicine from the Ministry of Research and Technology in 2020, as well as the Dean’s Award for Outstanding PhD Theses from the University of New South Wales in the same year. Previously, he earned the Early Career Research Award for the best oral presentation category from the Australian Society for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, and Sexual Health Medicine in 2018.

The next recipient of the outstanding lecturer award is Dr. Raden Rucitarahma Ristiawan, S.Par., M.Sc., from the Tourism Study Program. This tourism and cultural landscape expert earned a doctorate in Cultural Geography from Wageningen University, the Netherlands, in 2024. His dissertation discusses the commodification of landscapes in the development of geopark tourism in Indonesia. Dr. Ristiawan has consistently researched community-based tourism practices from his undergraduate studies at UGM to his master’s program at the University of Glasgow, United Kingdom, in 2017.

The third lecturer to receive a similar award is Wildan Sena Utama, S.S., M.A., Ph.D., from the History Study Program. This historian focuses on modern international and transnational relations between Indonesia and the Afro-Asian world in the 20th century. Dr. Utama completed his doctoral education at the University of Bristol in 2023. His dissertation highlights the role of Indonesian figures in the Afro-Asian movement during the 1950s and 1960s to demonstrate the importance of South-South solidarity in the history of national independence, anti-imperialist movements, and efforts to build a more decolonial world order.

From the educational staff ranks, FIB UGM appreciated the performance of two staff members who are considered to have made major contributions to the smooth operation of the faculty. Dyah Ayu Retnowati, A.Md., received the outstanding award in the Academic and Student Affairs division. Meanwhile, Tri Iswanto received an award in the General Affairs division for his crucial dedication in supporting the smooth running of administrative services and activities within the faculty.

This appreciation is expected to boost the motivation of the entire academic community to continue innovating and providing the best service in the future. This step aligns with the higher education institution’s commitment to continuously building a high-quality, inclusive, and resilient learning ecosystem to produce human resources capable of bringing a positive impact to the advancement of civilization.

[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