YOGYAKARTA- Due to the eruptions of Mt. Merapi that is still continuing until today, volcanic ashes have scattered to several other cities, Yogyakarta, Central Java and West Java. UGM is one area affected by the ashes.
Related with the condition, Rector of UGM on Friday (5/11) issued Circular no 8374/Dir-Akademik/2010 Vice Rector for Alumni and Business Development, Prof. Ir. Atyanto Dharoko, M.Phil., Ph.D. The circular addressed to Deans, Directof of Graduate School, Caretaker of Vocational School, and all units of UGM. It says that academic programs are halted until 13 November 2010. “Academic programs are halted following the eruptions of Mt. Merapi,” Prof. Atyanto said.
In addition, members of UGM academic community who want to help IDPs are asked to cooperate with Disaster Response Unit (DERU) at Bulaksumur D-7. Faculties are asked to record student volunteers, give briefing and ask students to comply with regulations issued by authorities and the university. “Students are expected to coordinate with official agencies such as DERU, local governments or National Disaster Mitigation Agency,” he said.
UGM currently prepares 3 shelters for IDPs, including Student’s Hall, Koesnadi Hardjasoemantri building, and indoor tennis court, all coordinated by DERU. In the Student’s Hall there are over 350 IDPs. “Students will come back to the campus on 15 November. UGM is focusing on helping the IDPs and victims,” Head of Public Relations and Protocol Affairs, Drs. Suryo Baskoro, M.S., said separately.
Students welcomed the circular. They said they were ready to become volunteers for the victims and survivors of Mt. Merapi. “As we’re off study, we’re ready to become volunteers. We were confused yesterday how we would deliver aid, for example, where to send clothing to,” Meliza Reza, student of International Relations, said.