Ahmad Dzakwan Afif Annizar, a graduate of the Master’s Program in Communication Studies, Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada (Fisipol UGM), was named the fastest master’s graduate at the Postgraduate Graduation Ceremony Period II of 2026, held on Wednesday (Jan. 20) at Grha Sabha Pramana. The man who is usually called Afif completed his master’s program in just 1 year and 22 days, far shorter than the average study duration of 2 years and 2 months among the 825 master’s graduates.
Afif shared that his interest in the art of communication began in senior high school. At that time, he frequently participated in newsreader competitions and once aspired to pursue a career as a news anchor.
This interest eventually led him to study Communication Studies at both undergraduate and master’s levels. However, once he entered university, his aspirations shifted. Instead, he wanted to follow in his mother’s footsteps and become an educator.
“During my undergraduate studies, I was inspired by my mother’s passion for learning as an educator until she earned the title of Professor,” he said.
During the thesis completion process, Afif admitted that he had begun working on his thesis from the start of his studies. According to him, drafting the thesis early significantly accelerated his graduation timeline.
He also prepared alternative research topics or thesis titles to ease the supervision process.
“In my first and second semesters, I had already prepared my research abstract, so when I met with lecturers and it was approved, I could simply continue,” he explained.
The motivation that Afif consistently held throughout his studies was simple: find what you love, and what you do will be completed with happiness. His fondness for films also led him to choose a film-related research topic.
The South Korean series Squid Game captured his attention as a subject for the study of social stratification.
“The director of Squid Game implicitly conveys social criticism regarding social stratification in society, which needs to be further explained,” he said.
After earning his master’s degree, Afif plans to pursue his goal of becoming an educator while continuing his doctoral studies.
Regarding tips for completing a master’s degree more quickly, Afif reminded students to understand themselves when facing obstacles and challenges on campus.
“When you feel discouraged, try to find solutions and make sure to complete what you have already started,” he advised.
Author: Jesi
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Post-editor: Rajendra Arya
Photographs: Ahmad Dzakwan Afif Annizar