The UGM Alumni Family (Kagama) continues distributing scholarships to UGM students from underprivileged families. The routinely provided scholarships include the Gadjah Mada Peduli and Kagama Foster Parent Scholarships.
The Foster Parent Scholarship is aimed explicitly at economically disadvantaged orphans or students who have lost one parent.
“These two programs have significantly supported students from various backgrounds in continuing their education at UGM,” said Sulastama Raharja, a Kagama board member, at the alumni gathering event titled “Maintaining Brotherhood in the Spirit of Humanity and Nationalism” on Sunday (Apr. 28) at the UGM Central Office.
According to Raharja, the scholarship funds are collected from alumni donations to help students from economically disadvantaged families.
“I believe these scholarships demonstrate the strong synergy among alumni to contribute and support less fortunate students,” Raharja explained.
Destina Kawanti, the Coordinator for Community Development at Kagama, elaborated that the scholarship funds come from alumni donations and grants from Kagama and UGM partners.
By the end of 2023, the Foster Parent Scholarship had amassed Rp 505 million, supporting 25 recipients. The funds are provided to assist with tuition fees and monthly living expenses. Meanwhile, the Gadjah Mada Peduli Scholarship distributed Rp 227 million to 74 students.
“There are still many students in need of assistance. We hope to gain more partners to sustain this scholarship program,” Kawanti added.
She mentioned that the scholarship program aligns with UGM’s principle of inclusive education, which aims to provide broad public education access.
“The hope is that the public will no longer worry about high education costs because various scholarship programs are available at UGM. Kagama continuously strives to strengthen its network so that more assistance can be provided for education,” she stated.
Ganjar Pranowo, Chair of the Kagama Board, remarked in his speech that educational assistance supports the continuity of students’ education and shapes positive character traits.
He noted that scholarship recipients often have a stronger determination to pursue their education and develop strong personal character. Additionally, skills and knowledge acquired through education are the main assets for achieving a bright future.
“Many of our children are eager to study at UGM. Those who have graduated with these scholarships share inspiring stories. Education, skills, and knowledge have changed their destinies and their families,” Pranowo said.
At the alumni gathering, an auction was held for batik works from Solo, created by the legendary batik artisans, the Tjoa family. The Tjoa family’s batik has been popularized under Batik Tiga Negeri since 1910 until 2014.
The Tjoa family’s batik is noted for its unique motifs and delicate and charming materials. The uniqueness and historical value make these batik works highly marketable. The auction proceeds with UGM alumni will also be channeled back into Kagama scholarships.
At the end of the event, Ahmad Muwafiq He provided spiritual insights on the importance of maintaining relationships. He emphasized that sharing and doing good deeds for others and the environment is humanity’s primary responsibility.
Author: Tasya
Editor: Gusti Grehenson