“Nitilaku reminds us to not forget where we came from,” said Ganjar Pranowo, chairman of UGM Alumni Association (Kagama) in his speech when releasing participants of Nitilaku 2018 event on Sunday (16/12) at the courtyard of the Palace of Yogyakarta (Kraton).
About 2,500 people were gathering at the north square of Kraton to take part in the event which is one of events to mark UGM 69th anniversary. The participants came from diverse groups, UGM academics community, alumni, and Yogyakarta people as well as those from various regions in Indonesia. They were wearing many different outfits and various traditional costumes.
Ganjar who is also Governor of Central Java added that this event reminded us that the Kraton was the witness of UGM first students taking their courses. Keraton became the witness of the spirit and commitment initiated by UGM when it was first established 69 years ago.
“By marching along villages in Yogya during this event, we can reflect on the intellectual and community service spirit that is sustained by UGM to this day,” he said.
Rector of UGM, Prof. Ir. Panut Mulyono, M.Eng., D.Eng., said this moment reminded UGM to always feel grateful to Keraton for the opportunity to grow. Hence, through the event, UGM works with various groups to advance education in Indonesia.
King of Yogyakarta Sri Sultan HB X hoped with the Nitilaku event, UGM would not change in terms of commitment and spirit from when it was established. “I hope UGM would continue to dedicate itself to the state, not discriminating those in need,” he closed his remarks which also marked the start of the march.
The participants began the march of nationhood heading towards Ghra Sabha Pramana UGM where they were offered traditional culinary delights and entertained with performances by artists from UGM and outside. Nitilaku 2018 was closed with the handover of faculty flags carried from Keraton to the Rector and Deans.