The Faculty of Biology at Universitas Gadjah Mada (Biology UGM) officially launched its 71st Anniversary celebration series on Friday (Jun. 26). Held in the courtyard of the Biology UGM Building, the opening ceremony marked the beginning of a series of anniversary events under the theme “Biosinergi Berkelanjutan, Mengglobal dalam Keunggulan.”
The celebration officially began with a ceremonial tumpeng cutting, led by the Dean of Biology UGM, symbolizing the start of the anniversary series. The event continued with the release of eight doves by the Chair of the Faculty Senate, the Dean, the Vice Deans, and the faculty leadership. The symbolic release featured seven gray doves and one white dove, representing the 71st anniversary of the Biology UGM.
Professor Budi Setiadi Daryono, Dean of Biology UGM, reminded all members of the academic community to remain grateful for the blessings bestowed upon them by God. He said that reaching the age of 71 marks a stage of greater maturity for the faculty, enabling it to continue making meaningful contributions to society.
“Our anniversary falls on Sept. 19. For a person, reaching the age of 71 would be considered elderly, but for an educational institution, it signifies growing maturity,” he said in his opening remarks.
Professor Budi noted that, after 71 years, many aspects of the Biology UGM have become well established. He highlighted that its study programs have received international accreditation and now offer double-degree programs at every academic level. According to him, collaboration is the cornerstone of any higher education institution striving to achieve global goals. He added that Biology UGM has successfully secured research funding and student exchange opportunities through the Australian Government’s New Colombo Plan.
According to Professor Budi, institutional maturity means the faculty should aspire to achieve more than simply carrying out its routine responsibilities. He emphasized that higher education institutions should not focus solely on scientific publications and patents but also create tangible impacts through community service, research, and international recognition. He stressed that Biology UGM’s contributions to society must continue to grow.
In addition, Professor Budi also encouraged the entire academic community to uphold the values of guyub rukun (solidarity and harmony) and migunani (being beneficial to others). He likened the faculty community to the individual sticks of a traditional broom, which are only strong when bound together. Therefore, he said, progress, unity, and togetherness must continue to be nurtured.
“Without togetherness, there can be no strength to create meaningful impact. We should first bring benefits to ourselves, then to our families, our surroundings, and ultimately to society. Strong Biology, Healthy Biology, Thriving Biology,” he said.
Dr. Dwi Umi Siswanti, Chair of the 71st Anniversary Committee, outlined a series of anniversary events that will continue through the end of 2026. She explained that following the opening ceremony, the agenda will continue with an International Summer Course and an International Conference in early July. She also noted that activities planned for August and September include community outreach visits (Anjangsana), an alumni gathering, a Faculty Senate meeting, and Biotoprak Night, which is currently in preparation.
“From August through November, our students will also organize Biosphere and Research Day,” she said.
The opening ceremony was enlivened by a variety of activities, including a group aerobics session, a communal breakfast, and a gathering of faculty members, educational staff, and students. The atmosphere of collaboration and camaraderie reflected the spirit that will continue throughout the anniversary celebration series.
Author: Hanifah
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Post-Editor: Priyanandaningrat
Photo: Donnie