The Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) community is deeply saddened by the passing of one of its finest members, Professor Soesanto Mangkoewidjojo, who passed away at the age of 91.
The late professor at UGM’s Faculty of Veterinary Medicine (FKH UGM) passed away on Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2025, at 05:00 WIB.
Before being laid to rest at the UGM Family Cemetery in Sawitsari, Professor Mangkoewidjojo’s body was placed in Balairung UGM on Wednesday (Jan. 15).
Professor M. Baiquni, chair of UGM’s Board of Professors, led the farewell ceremony, which was attended by the UGM academic community.
“On behalf of the UGM community, I extend my deepest condolences for the passing of Professor Soesanto Mangkoewidjojo. May Allah grant him the best place and all his good deeds in this world be accepted,” Professor Baiquni said in his opening remarks.
The board chair noted that Professor Mangkoewidjojo was stationed in the Department of Clinical Pathology at FKH UGM.
He was appointed a professor after delivering his inaugural speech, titled “Environmental Pollution: A Challenge for Pathologists,” at UGM’s Open Senate Meeting on Jan. 19, 1985, or 40 years ago.
In that speech, Professor Baiquni continued, Professor Mangkoewidjojo discussed the impact of environmental pollution on various living organisms and the role of pathologists in addressing these issues. His speech highlighted the many materials and substances that pollute the environment.
“He also identified various pollutants and their toxicopathological aspects,” he explained.
Professor Baiquni expressed his hope that the works of the late Professor Mangkoewidjojo would pave the way for the future development of both knowledge and acts of worship.
He also hoped that younger generations would follow his example, expand upon his knowledge, and continue his work in the future.
“We also pray that the family he leaves behind will be granted patience, strength, and acceptance. For indeed, Allah has the ultimate right over all His creations, and may the prayers we offer today be accepted by Him,” he said.
“I also extend my gratitude to all those present—fellow members of the UGM community—for taking the time to attend this final tribute to Professor Mangkoewidjojo before he is laid to rest at the UGM Family Cemetery in Sawitsari.”
The Vice Dean for Academic and Student Affairs at FKH UGM, Dr. Agung Budiyanto, read a biography that noted Professor Mangkoewidjojo was born in Klaten on Apr. 5, 1933.
He completed his diploma and undergraduate degrees in Veterinary Medicine at Universitas Gadjah Mada and continued his professional veterinary education.
He earned his Master’s in Veterinary Science from the University of Minnesota and his Doctorate in Veterinary Science from Michigan State University, USA.
Throughout his career, Professor Mangkoewidjojo held various positions, including Head of the Veterinary Medicine Department, Head of the Veterinary Medicinal Chemistry Division, Head of the Veterinary Public Health Division, Vice Dean I, Vice Dean II, and served as Dean of FKH UGM for two terms.
Author: Agung Nugroho
Post-editor: Afifudin Baliya