The Sospol UGM 96 held a 27th Alums Reunion of the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences (Fisipol) Class of 1996 on July 8, 2023.
This reunion was one of the association’s programs to maintain a sense of camaraderie and alums relations. From the joyful demonstrations to the wild nostalgia, it was all here.
Celebrating friendship for 27 years was the concept of the reunion. Under the theme “Never Tired 96,” the mission was for all Class of 1996 alums to never tire of nurturing and embracing the “Energy of 96.”
The “Energy of 96” referred to the positive spirit that emerged among the Class of 1996 while studying at the faculty. It encompassed enthusiasm, proactivity, curiosity, a thirst for activities, and the willingness to be honest and open to friendship.
“The energy of 96 becomes even more relevant when the average age of the alums has reached 45 years. This age can be considered a phase when individuals enter a stable zone,” said FX Laksana AS, head of the reunion committee.
Laksana further explained that the stability and routines of life often erode an individual’s awareness and sensitivity in fulfilling their life’s calling while enjoying life. The reunion was expected to replenish that “Energy of 96” and remind everyone of their awareness and sensitivity.
“A reunion is a reunion. The main purpose is to meet and reminisce with old friends. But by returning momentarily to the place where we learned about life (the campus) and celebrating a friendship that has lasted for 27 years, hopefully, we can bring something meaningful back to enhance our quality of life, personally and socially. And hopefully, the bond of the Class of 1996 will become even stronger and closer,” said the International Relations alumnus
Sofyan Herbowo, an alumnus of Governance Science, believed that his fellows from the Class of 1996, generally, have started to hold important positions in their workplaces. Therefore, building a network of relationships is crucial for noble purposes.
“Hence, this reunion is the perfect momentum. We need to strengthen the bonds of friendship and reinforce the network for common goals,” said Herbowo, who was also part of the fund committee.
A total of 235 alums attended the event. They came from all ten study programs offered in 1996, including Broadcasting, Advertising, Public Relations, Library Science, Governance Science, Public Administration, International Relations, Sociology, Social Welfare, and Communication.
The alums came from all corners of Indonesia and countries such as Japan and Qatar. The atmosphere was egalitarian, casual, joyful, familiar, and comfortable.
The event was designed in such a way as to make participants feel “rejuvenated and refreshed.” The activities included the Freshmen Orientation Part II, Gendruwo Garden Party, Sky-Headed Narcissistic Photoshoot, Turmeric Carnival, and Joyful Demonstration. There was also the Wild Nostalgia Package, the Declaration of the 96th Celebration, the Talent Exhibition, and the Wandering Together at Angkringan 96.
There were Dawet Ayu (traditional Indonesian drink), Es Duren (durian ice cream), and Kopi Ndangndut (coffee). There was a parade of Tempe Kemul (fermented soybean cake) and traditional snacks for those longing for warmth. All were presented with live music and a heroic venue in the style of Purawisata.
The Dean of Fisipol, Wawan Mas’udi, also an alumnus of the Governance Science program in 1996, attended the reunion. In his speech, the dean expressed his happiness with the organization of the reunion.
“The campus is always open to welcoming its alums to come and reminisce, as well as to foster collaboration,” said Mas’udi.
Vice-Rector for Student Affairs, Community Service, and Alumni Arie Sudjito stated in his speech that this reunion was an opportunity to strengthen the network of relationships, creating a closer bond between the alums and the university.
“May this event make the alums love UGM, Fisipol, and its departments even more. UGM awaits the contribution of its alums in responding to future challenges,” said Sudjito.
Source: Reunion committee
Editor: Satria