The Faculty of Philosophy, Universitas Gadjah Mada (Philosophy UGM), celebrated its 58th Anniversary with an Open Senate Meeting held on Tuesday, Aug. 19, at the Persatuan Room. This year’s theme, “Open Science: Democratizing Knowledge, Empowering the Marginalized,” reflects the commitment to advancing knowledge that is more open, inclusive, and just.
Dean of Philosophy UGM, Professor Siti Murtiningsih, highlighted the faculty’s academic achievements in her annual report for 2024/2025.
One of the key accomplishments was earning international accreditation from FIBAA for its undergraduate program.
This year, the faculty welcomed 164 new undergraduate students, 29 master’s students, including international students from Timor Leste, and seven doctoral candidates.
“The faculty also recorded 123 new graduates, 38 reputable scientific publications, and various research projects by lecturers focusing on ethics, philosophy of science, and local wisdom,” she said.
UGM Rector, Professor Ova Emilia, congratulated Philosophy UGM on its 58th Anniversary and emphasized the importance of openness in academic knowledge.
According to her, closed knowledge risks perpetuating myths and dogmas, while openness brings dynamics and dialectics that enrich the development of science.
“This openness is the foundation to ensure that knowledge remains relevant, provides solutions, and contributes to building a just society,” she remarked.
On this occasion, the rector expressed hope that with its diverse academic achievements and innovative activities, the 58th Anniversary of Philosophy UGM would serve as a momentum to strengthen philosophy’s role in bridging knowledge, social justice, and community empowerment.
Philosophy UGM lecturer, Dr. Sonjoruri Budiani Trisakti, delivered a scientific oration titled “Open Science and Scientific Truth.”
Dr. Trisakti linked the concept of open science with theories of scientific truth proposed by Thomas Kuhn, Karl Popper, and Robert Merton.
She emphasized that openness in science encompasses not only access to publications and data, but also involves public participation and engagement.
“Science can only maintain its credibility if it is grounded in universal norms, transparency, and the ethical commitment of scientists,” she said.
Following the scientific oration, the celebration was marked by a series of activities, including the traditional tumpeng cutting ceremony, the awarding of prizes to the winners of philosophy essay competitions for high school and university students, and the presentation of awards to retired lecturers and education staff of the Faculty of Philosophy.
Author: Ika Agustine
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Post-editor: Lintang Andwyna
Photographer: Donnie Trisfian