YOGYAKARTA – Cultural heritage and cultural artifacts have to be preserved. The alumni of Archaelogy of Universitas Gadjah Mada has the responsibility to always keep the works of our ancestors. This was said by Acting Chairman of Institute of Research and Community Service, Dr. drh. Raden Wisnu Nurcahyo, when opening the tenth Lustrum of Archaeology Department of UGM, at the yard of R.M. Margono Djojohadikusumo building on Saturday (15/9).
Wisnu added that UGM has considerable attention to the preservation of cultural artifacts. This was reflected in the construction initiative of the Gadjah Mada museum which will be housed on the third floor of UGM Library.
“Alumni of Archaeology can take part in contributing to add to the museum’s collection,” Wisnu said.
Wisnu hoped that with the Gadjah Mada museum, lecturer and researcher’s findings and works will be accommodated. He saw that the Department and its alumni have played many roles in the preservation of cultural artifacts.
“Like the metamorphose of a cocoon into a butterfly, playing a significant role in the cultural preservation.”
Dean of Faculty of Cultural Sciences of UGM, Dr. Ida Rochani Adi, S.U., has a similar opinion. The development of the department is due to the support from many groups and individuals, including Yayasan Arsari Djodjohadikusumo that has contributed in the construction of R.M.Margono building.
“If I’m not mistaken, the Archaelogy Department has the best laboratory in Indonesia. I hope that with the many achievements, the responsiblity will increase,” Ida said.
Previously, Head of Archaelogy Department, Dr. Mahirta, MA., said that along with the time, lecturers and alumni are expected to reflect to develop themselves. Mahirta also asked the alumni to help develop the Department. “This event is not merely for celebrations, but also to invite alumni to develop and build the department,” Mahirta explained.
Some events to be held in the anniversary include tree planting, blood donor, educational exhibition and seminar. The anniversary with the theme Fetching the Dream is followed by 169 alumni from different regions such as Aceh, Medan, Makasar and Japan.