UGM Museum hosted a temporary exhibition titled “Karsa Karya Koesnadi Hardjosoemantri” (The Creations of Koesnadi Hardjosoemantri). The exhibit aims to showcase the ideas and works of Koesnadi Hardjosoemantri, one of UGM’s outstanding alumni.
Opened on November 16, the exhibition features 15 collections from the tenure of UGM’s rector from 1986 to 1990 and concluded on November 29, 2023.
One of the displayed collections is a commemorative plaque for the 50th anniversary of Kupang State High School 1. This high school was where Koesnadi Hardjasoemantri initiated the Student Deployment Program (PTM), the precursor to UGM’s Community Service Program (KKN). There, he served and taught students for one year, from 1951 to 1952.
Other items include a professor’s gown and cap, a nameplate for Professor Koesnadi Hardjasoemantri, environmental law books, education badges, dedication, scientific achievement, a star-shaped pin, and a blue-patterned tie.
Additionally, there are tie clips with the Master of Law program inscription, a tie hanger with a coconut bud logo, a pin with the WUSC EUMC logo, the Quran, an organizer book, a diary box, and a Toyota Corona 2000 toy car.
“What is presented in this exhibition certainly does not yet comprehensively represent Koesnadi Hardjasoemantri’s ideas and works. However, it is expected to inspire the public about his knowledge, wisdom, dedication, spirit, and humility,” said the Head of UGM Museum, Djaliati Sri Nugrahani, on Thursday (November 23).
Nugrahani mentioned that although Koesnadi Hardjasoemantri has passed away, what he dedicated throughout his life will continue to live and grow. He was a figure with significant ideas and contributions to UGM’s journey.
“His contributions have been prominent since he was a student, inviting his fellow students to participate in the first period of the PTM. PTM inspired student movements in teaching, such as Indonesia Mengajar, and initiated the birth of KKN,” she explained.
The late Hardjasoemantri was also known as an environmental figure. He contributed to initiating and advocating Law No. 4 of 1982 concerning the Basic Principles of Environmental Management.
He was also an environmental activist and the Secretary of the Minister of State for PPLH/KLH (Environmental Management and Forestry) from 1980 to 1986.
He also served as the Head of the Directorate of Higher Education and Culture, the Higher Education and Culture Attaché at the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia in The Hague, the Rector of UGM, and the Director of the Postgraduate Program at Padjadjaran University.
Furthermore, Djaliati Sri Nugrahani expressed that the exhibition also commemorates the 10th anniversary of the UGM Museum. This exhibition presents Hardjasoemantri’s figure through his thoughts and works dedicated to the alma mater, the nation, and the state.
The exhibition began with the theme “This is Koesnadi,” representing the idealism of a student in fighting for education. Then, it shifted to the theme “For You, Pertiwi,” describing Hardjasoemantri’s role in education, culture, and the environment.
The story continued with the theme “Returning to Bulaksmur,” representing Hardjasoemantri’s role at UGM after returning from his activities outside the campus. His tenure as the 8th Rector of UGM was also showcased here.
The exhibition concluded with the segment “Asa Berkarya Sepanjang Masa,” portraying his figure working until the end of his life. After retiring from UGM, he served as the National Institute of Science and Technology Rector in Jakarta.
Author: Ika