Bantul — The PKM-PM Litera-Wayang team held a Wayang Kulit (puppet) performance arts and exhibition at SMKN 1 Kasihan, Bantul, marking the culmination of their community service initiative. The event showcased the students’ creative adaptation of ancient texts and provided a platform for puppetry arts students to demonstrate their talents following the program’s completion.

The showcase featured four young puppeteers from the school’s Puppetry Department performing two main plays: Bima Kutu Walang Taga and Gathotkaca Siyung. Both scripts were creatively adapted by the students from the ancient manuscript Pakem Grĕntĕng during the program.

Twelfth and eleventh-grade puppetry students supported the production as musical accompanists and stage crew. Attendees included the principal of SMKN 1 Kasihan, the head of the Puppetry Department, school members, representatives from the Bantul Regency Cultural Office, and dozens of students. School officials welcomed the initiative, noting that integrating ancient manuscript adaptation into arts education is a first for the institution.

In addition to the performance, a documentation and literacy exhibition was set up outside the indoor arena. The display highlighted the students’ creative journey through visual records and photos, covering script analysis, puppet making, and stage rehearsals. Interactive QR codes were also available, allowing visitors to explore the manuscript adaptation process.

This event marks a successful collaboration between the PKM-PM Litera-Wayang team and the school. Through this program’s outcomes, the team hopes the manuscript adaptation method will be integrated into the vocational curriculum to support cultural preservation and foster creativity among the youth.

Author: Najwa Aulya Aliff Na’im

YOGYAKARTA – As they enter their fifth semester, students of the Arabic Literature Study Program at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), Class of 2024, are beginning to prepare for their academic and career paths. This was among the topics discussed during a meeting with the Head of the Study Program and Academic Advisor, Dr. Zulfa Purnamawati, which covered study planning, final projects, and internship opportunities.

The meeting began with a discussion on students’ academic progress and the plans they have started to develop. Some students have already expressed an interest in literature, linguistics, and translation, while others are still considering their options for their final projects. Dr. Zulfa also provided guidance on academic planning, including key considerations related to the implementation of the 2021 and 2026 curricula.

Beyond coursework, students were encouraged to view their fifth semester as an ideal time to gain experience outside the classroom, particularly through internships. Sultan, who previously completed an internship at the Directorate of Protocol of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia, shared his experience during the internship. He discussed the process of securing the position and the various responsibilities he undertook, including supporting state events and diplomatic visits. Drawing from his experience, Sultan emphasized the importance of early preparation, from completing the necessary documents to developing communication and coordination skills.

The discussion then expanded to broader career opportunities with Garin Arivian, a 2020 alumnus of the Arabic Literature Study Program. He encouraged students to recognize that Arabic language skills can lead to diverse career paths rather than being limited to a single field. Diplomacy, international organizations, research and think tanks, media, and the private sector are among the areas that Arabic Literature graduates can explore. Students were therefore encouraged to begin identifying the fields they would like to pursue and developing the skills needed to support their career goals. Garin also emphasized the importance of maintaining a well-organized CV, building a professional LinkedIn profile, developing a writing portfolio, and strengthening English proficiency to access opportunities at the international level.

The discussion also extended beyond opportunities in Indonesia, with students exploring internship and short-term program opportunities abroad. Some expressed interest in gaining experience at embassies and international research institutions. Garin also offered to assist students seeking such opportunities, particularly those related to research institutions and think tanks. Throughout the process, students were encouraged to consult with the Study Program and their Academic Advisor to ensure that the opportunities they pursue align with their academic needs and can be appropriately recognized as part of their academic development.

The meeting provided an opportunity for students of the Arabic Literature Study Program, Class of 2024, to connect their academic studies with internship experiences and future career plans. The fifth semester is therefore not merely a stage for completing academic credits, but also a valuable period for exploring opportunities, gaining practical experience, and beginning to define the professional paths they wish to pursue after graduation.

Author : Indana Zulfa Maulida

YOGYAKARTA – As they enter their third semester, students of the Arabic Literature Study Program at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) took part in an orientation session to prepare for the upcoming semester while planning their academic and personal development. The session covered curriculum updates, academic planning, time management, and opportunities for students to develop their skills both inside and outside the classroom. The session began with a presentation by Dr. Zulfa Purnamawati, S.S., M.Hum., who explained the transition between the 2021 and 2026 curricula. Students learned about course mapping and the points they need to consider when planning their studies, including courses from previous semesters that they may still need to complete.

The discussion then moved beyond academic matters through a sharing session with Pandhita Hapsari, an Arabic Literature student from the 2023 intake. She encouraged the 2025 students to be willing to try new things and take opportunities they may not have considered before. Drawing from her own experiences, Pandhita highlighted the importance of stepping outside one’s comfort zone and being open to failure as part of the learning process. She also encouraged students to take part in organizations, competitions, and other activities that can help them develop their soft skills. These experiences, she explained, can become valuable preparation for entering the professional world. At the same time, students were reminded to manage their time well and maintain a balance between academic responsibilities and other activities.

The session continued with discussions between students and their respective Academic Advisors (DPA): Dr. Mahmudah, S.S., M.Hum., Dr. Nur Kholid, S.Pd.I., M.Pd.I., and Dr. Muhammad Zakki Masykur, S.S., M.Pd.I. The discussion provided students with an opportunity to consult directly about their academic plans and prepare for the upcoming semester. It also allowed students to discuss their study progress and receive guidance based on their individual academic needs. Through the session, students gained not only a clearer understanding of their academic plans but also new perspectives on how to make the most of their university experience. Entering their third semester, the 2025 students are encouraged to take greater initiative, explore new opportunities, and develop experiences and skills that can support their academic journey and future careers.

Author : Indana Zulfa Maulida

YOGYAKARTA, August 11, 2026 – The Arabic Literature Study Program at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) held an orientation session for its 2026 new students as part of an introduction to the academic environment and university life. The event provided new students with an opportunity to learn more about the study program, understand the academic system, and gain an overview of the various opportunities for personal and academic development available during their studies in Arabic Literature at UGM. The session began with a presentation by Dr. Zulfa Purnamawati, S.S., M.Hum., Head of the Arabic Literature Study Program. During the session, new students were introduced to the academic environment and system of the study program, including an overview of the learning process, the completion of the Study Plan Card (KRS), and other important information they need to know at the beginning of their university journey. The session provided new students with an initial understanding of the academic process while helping them adjust to university life.

The orientation continued with an experience-sharing session featuring Garin Arivian, S.S., an alumnus of the Arabic Literature Study Program at UGM from the 2020 cohort who is currently pursuing a master’s degree in Sweden. Garin shared his experiences as a university student, including his involvement as a Student Achievement Award recipient (Mahasiswa Berprestasi/Mapres) and as the head of Kampung Budaya, a student-led cultural community. His experiences showed new students that university life can be an opportunity to develop themselves through a wide range of academic and extracurricular activities. During the session, Garin also encouraged new students to be willing to explore the opportunities that come their way during their studies. He emphasized that students do not have to wait until they feel completely ready before taking an opportunity. Participating in student organizations, competitions, campus activities, and experiences beyond the classroom can be valuable processes for discovering one’s abilities and interests. His experience of pursuing further studies abroad also demonstrated how the experiences and achievements built during university can become valuable preparation for taking the next step in one’s academic journey.

The series of activities continued with a meeting with the Academic Advisors (Dosen Pembimbing Akademik/DPA): Dr. Arief Ma’nawi, S.S., M.Hum., Dr. Hamdan, S.S., M.A., Dr. Imam Wicaksono, Lc., M.A., and Dr. Tohir Mustofa, S.S., M.A. During this session, new students met directly with the lecturers who will support and guide their academic journey throughout their studies in Arabic Literature at UGM. Beyond serving as an opportunity for introductions, the meeting allowed students to communicate more closely with their Academic Advisors and gain a better understanding of how academic guidance and support will be provided throughout their university years.

Through this orientation program, new students gained an initial understanding of the Arabic Literature Study Program at UGM from various perspectives. From learning about the academic system and hearing experiences from alumni to meeting their Academic Advisors, the series of activities is expected to help new students adapt to university life while encouraging them to remain open to the many opportunities to learn, grow, and develop throughout their studies.

Author : Indana Zulfa Maulida

Michelle Anastasia Budiman, a Class of 2022 student from the Japanese Language and Culture Study Program at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), is currently participating in a student exchange program in Japan. As part of her cultural immersion experience, she learned how to make okonomiyaki, one of Japan’s most iconic savory pancakes. This activity became part of her learning experience beyond the classroom, offering a firsthand introduction to everyday Japanese life through its culinary traditions.

During the cooking process, Michelle not only learned the techniques of preparing okonomiyaki but also experienced selecting and purchasing ingredients at a local Japanese supermarket before cooking the dish independently. This hands-on experience provided her with a deeper understanding of local ingredients, Japanese shopping habits, and the culinary practices that form an integral part of everyday life in Japan.

This experience demonstrates that a student exchange program offers opportunities to learn far beyond the academic setting. By actively engaging in the daily lives of local communities, students can develop a deeper understanding of the Japanese language and culture while strengthening their intercultural awareness and adaptability in an international environment.

Author: Japanese Literature Study Program