Yogyakarta, 7/5/2025 – Faculty of Ushuludin, Adab, and Humanities of UIN Salatiga made a significant visit to the Faculty of Cultural Studies (FIB) at Gadjah Mada University (UGM). The event took place in the Auditorium Margono and was attended by students from various programs, including Quranic Studies, Arabic Literature, and Islamic Theology and Philosophy. The primary aim of this visit was to gain insights into the curriculum and learning methodologies of the Cultural Anthropology and Middle Eastern Studies programs at FIB UGM.

The event commenced with an opening ceremony that set a warm and collaborative tone for the day. The opening remarks highlighted the importance of educational partnerships and the role of civil society in fostering academic exchanges. This aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in promoting quality education and partnerships for the goals.

Following the opening, a representative from UIN Salatiga, Prof. Dr. Mubasirun, M.Ag., delivered a welcoming speech. He emphasized the significance of collaboration between institutions and the sharing of knowledge, which is essential for enhancing educational quality. His remarks resonated with the audience, underscoring the importance of civil society partnerships in achieving educational objectives.

The Faculty of Cultural Studies at UGM was represented by Prof. Dr. Sangidu, M.Hum., who also provided a welcoming address. He expressed his enthusiasm for the visit and the potential for future collaborations. His speech highlighted the importance of cultural studies in understanding diverse perspectives, which is crucial in today’s globalized world.

The first session of the event focused on Cultural Anthropology, presented by Dr. Elan Lazuardi, M.A. He provided an overview of the program, discussing its curriculum and the methodologies employed in teaching. The session was interactive, with students engaging in a Q&A session, allowing them to delve deeper into the subject matter and clarify their queries.

Following the discussion on Cultural Anthropology, the second session was dedicated to Middle Eastern Studies (KBTT). Dr. Mahmudah, M.Hum., led this session, providing insights into the unique aspects of the program. The students from UIN Salatiga were particularly interested in the comparative studies and cultural exchanges that the program offers, which are vital for understanding the complexities of the Middle Eastern region.

The event fostered an environment of sharing and learning, with students from both institutions exchanging ideas and experiences. This interaction not only enriched their academic knowledge but also strengthened the bonds between the two faculties, paving the way for future collaborations.

As the event drew to a close, the participants expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to learn from one another. The closing remarks emphasized the importance of continued partnerships in education, which is essential for achieving the SDGs related to quality education and fostering inclusive and equitable learning opportunities.

In conclusion, the visit of the Faculty of Ushuludin, Adab, and Humanities of UIN Salatiga to FIB UGM was a successful event that highlighted the importance of educational collaboration. It served as a platform for knowledge exchange and reinforced the commitment of both institutions to work together in promoting quality education and cultural understanding.

[Public Relation Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Bulan Churniati]

Yogyakarta, 8/5/2025 – The Balai Senat of Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) was filled with anticipation as the academic community gathered to witness the inauguration of Prof. Dr. Hendrokumoro, M.Hum., a prominent figure in the field of Linguistics at the Faculty of Cultural Sciences, UGM. The event, held from 09.00 to 10.00 AM, featured a thought-provoking inaugural address titled “The Current Existence of the Javanese Language: Its Role, Challenges, and Opportunities.”

In his address, Prof. Hendrokumoro highlighted the current condition of the Javanese language, which is increasingly limited to specific contexts such as within families or traditional communities. This trend risks marginalising the language, reflecting a broader concern over linguistic diversity in Indonesia. He noted that 15 regional languages in Indonesia—such as Tandia (Papua), Mawes (Papua), Palumata (Papua), Tugun (Papua), Saponi (Papua), Piru (Maluku), Kajeli/Kayeli (Maluku), Moksela (Maluku), Palumata (Maluku), Naka’ela (Maluku), Ternateno (North Maluku), Hukumina (Maluku), Hoti (Maluku), Serua (Maluku), and Nila (Maluku)—are critically endangered. Furthermore, over 150 other languages in Indonesia are currently facing extinction, underscoring the urgent need to preserve the country’s linguistic heritage—particularly in his area of expertise, the Javanese language.

Prof. Hendrokumoro argued that the Javanese language, with its rich variations, is deeply intertwined with four fundamental relationships: between humans and God, among humans, within oneself, and with nature and its contents. To address the challenges facing Javanese, he proposed a more flexible and open teaching approach. He suggested integrating contemporary cultural elements—such as Javanese pop music and films—into the curriculum. Songs like “Rungkad,” “Satru,” and “Kisinan,” along with films such as “Yowis Ben” and “Lara Ati,” can serve as engaging tools to attract younger generations to the language.

The event was attended by various figures, including faculty members, students, and representatives from the local community. The atmosphere was filled with enthusiasm as attendees recognised the importance of preserving regional languages as part of Indonesia’s cultural identity. The inauguration not only celebrated Prof. Hendrokumoro’s academic achievement but also served as a platform to raise awareness about the vital role of education in safeguarding linguistic diversity.

In line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 4, which emphasises inclusive and equitable quality education, the professor’s message resonated strongly with the audience. He called for collaborative efforts among educators, policymakers, and communities to create an environment in which regional languages can thrive alongside the national language.

As the event concluded, attendees expressed their appreciation for Prof. Hendrokumoro’s dedication to preserving the Javanese language. The inauguration stood not only as a celebration of academic excellence but also as a reminder of education’s vital role in sustaining cultural heritage and linguistic diversity.

[Public Relation Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Bulan Churniati]

Yogyakarta, 24 April 2025 – IKMASA Mentoring #1 was successfully held at the Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada, carrying the theme “Ownership Over Obligation: Working With Purpose, Not Just Pressure.” The event featured Garin Arivian Muhammad, S.S., as the main speaker and was attended by students of the Arabic Study Program at UGM who are members of Ikmasa. The mentoring session aimed to foster a deeper awareness of responsibility as a core foundation for both personal and professional growth.

In his presentation, Garin emphasized that responsibility is more than just an obligation imposed from outside, it is a conscious attitude toward one’s role and the impact of one’s actions. His talk covered the meaning of responsibility from various perspectives, the different types of responsibility (personal and professional), and practical steps to become a responsible individual, such as keeping promises, owning one’s actions, setting realistic goals, and engaging in regular self-reflection.

This event is part of Ikmasa’s Leadership and Character Development program, designed to contribute to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 4 (Quality Education) and Goal 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions). Through this mentoring session, participants were encouraged not only to understand the concept of responsibility but also to apply it meaningfully in academic life, organizational involvement, and future professional paths.

[External Relations Division of IKMASA]

Yogyakarta, April 26, 2025 – The Student Association of Arabic Study Program (IKMASA) of Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) welcomed a delegation from the Student Association of Arabic Language and Literature (HMPS BSA) of Universitas Ahmad Dahlan (UAD) in a collaborative visitation program titled IKMASA Berkunjung (SANJUNG). This visit was part of HMPS BSA UAD’s initiative to strengthen organizational quality, evaluate performance, expand networks, and foster innovation among students of Arabic Literature.

The event brought together the executive members of IKMASA 2025/2026 and HMPS BSA UAD 2024/2025, including both chairpersons—Candra Solihin (IKMASA UGM) and Galih Yoga (HMPS BSA UAD). The program featured a warm silaturahmi (bond-building session) between the two organizations, including cabinet presentations by both chairpersons, division-level sharing sessions, and a campus tour followed by a group photo session.

Held at the Faculty of Cultural Sciences UGM, specifically in Room 709 of Soegondo Building, the event began at 09.00 AM with an Opening Ceremony. The agenda included a Qur’anic recitation and a communal singing of the Indonesian national anthem, “Indonesia Raya.” Welcoming speeches from representatives of both organizations followed, expressing shared hopes and the purpose behind this inter-campus initiative.

In the main session, each chairperson presented their respective organizational structures and work programs, aiming to inspire mutual collaboration and exchange of ideas. From 10.30 to 11.00 AM, the program continued with a dynamic interdepartmental sharing session that provided a valuable forum for discussion, reflection, and the exchange of experiences and strategies.

The visit concluded with a campus tour of UGM, giving guests from HMPS BSA UAD a closer look at the university environment while strengthening the personal and institutional connections between the two groups.

It is hoped that this event will serve as the foundation for future collaboration and continued communication between IKMASA UGM and HMPS BSA UAD. Beyond building organizational insight, the program also fostered meaningful relationships and a spirit of unity among Arabic Literature students from different institutions.

SANJUNG marks a positive step forward in promoting inter-university dialogue and collaboration. Activities like this demonstrate that the spirit of student organization and cooperation can flourish not only within UGM and UAD but also across other Arabic Literature programs throughout Indonesia—encouraging a more connected and empowered academic community.

[External Relations Division of IKMASA]

Yogyakarta, 24 April 2025 – A collaborative meeting took place at the Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM). Held in Meeting Room 1 of Building C, the session brought together three representatives from Oberlin College, two vice deans from the Faculty of Cultural Sciences, several English literature lecturers, and other faculty members. The meeting aimed to strengthen global partnerships and explore opportunities for student engagement activities that can be conducted online.

The meeting opened with remarks from the vice deans, who emphasised the importance of international collaboration in enriching educational experiences. They highlighted how such partnerships align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in promoting quality education and global partnerships for sustainable development.

The Oberlin College representatives presented their vision for the collaboration, focusing on the potential of virtual student exchanges. They discussed various platforms and tools that could support such exchanges, enabling students from both institutions to share academic experiences and cultural insights. The initiative is intended to create a more interconnected learning environment that transcends geographical boundaries. Discussions also covered possible activities for virtual exchange, with UGM faculty suggesting programmes that highlight local content.

Beyond academic exchange, the representatives also discussed the importance of cultural exchange. They acknowledged that understanding diverse cultures is vital in today’s increasingly connected world. Plans were made to incorporate cultural components into the virtual exchange programme, allowing students to showcase their traditions and learn from one another.

In summary, the collaboration meeting between Oberlin College and the Faculty of Cultural Sciences at UGM marked a significant step toward enhancing global partnerships in education. By leveraging technology for virtual exchange, both institutions aim to offer students valuable learning experiences that transcend borders. This initiative not only supports the SDGs but also equips students to thrive in a more interconnected world.

[Public Relation Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Bulan Churniati]