Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) hosted the “Appreciation and Inspiration Night: Rhythms for the Nation” as a tribute to partners who have contributed to providing scholarships for students. The event, held on Thursday evening (Nov. 13) at the Innovation and Creativity Hub (GIK UGM) Joglo, featured an appreciation session, presentations on scholarship achievements, and musical performances that fostered a sense of togetherness.
UGM Rector, Professor Ova Emilia, in her remarks, expressed appreciation for the partners’ steadfast commitment to consistently supporting sustainable access to education for UGM students.
“Tonight is our way of expressing gratitude to all of you for the meaningful contributions that have helped open pathways for young generations to pursue higher education,” she said.
The rector added that the support from partners not only strengthens scholarship provision but also serves as an essential foundation for creating more inclusive learning opportunities.
She emphasized that the spirit of collaboration that has grown over the years is a key asset in expanding the reach of scholarship beneficiaries.
“The dedication and care you have shown empower UGM to ensure that education is accessible to more children across the nation,” she noted.
The event continued with a presentation by the UGM Vice-Rector for Student Affairs, Community Service, and Alumni, Dr. Arie Sujito, who outlined the socio-economic conditions of UGM students and the challenges related to educational financing.
He explained that around 30% of UGM students come from low-income families, while many others fall into vulnerable groups not covered by existing education assistance schemes.
“There are still many students who need support to continue their studies without financial barriers,” he explained.
The vice-rector also highlighted the reduction in the KIP Kuliah quota for 2025 and the limited alternative funding options, both of which affect the continuity of student support.
He stressed that this situation calls for strengthened collaboration between UGM and its partners to maintain stable scholarship funding amid shifts in national policy.
“Therefore, stronger cooperation becomes crucial in ensuring that every student can continue their education,” he stated.
In addition to outlining challenges, Vice-Rector Sujito also shared UGM’s strategic directions, including strengthening scholarship programs, mentoring initiatives, building connections with professional sectors, and providing specific support for students with disabilities.
He emphasized that access to education encompasses not only financial assistance but also a learning ecosystem that supports students’ optimal development.
“Every form of support is a social investment that will reinforce the quality of future generations,” he said.
On this occasion, the vice-rector presented updates on UGM’s scholarship fundraising and distribution, which have been supported by the government, state-owned enterprises, the private sector, foundations, and individual donors.
He assured that all contributions are managed through a credible and transparent system to maximize benefits for students.
“The trust shown by our partners demonstrates that UGM’s scholarship management system is well-received because it is accountable and impactful,” he remarked.
The evening also featured a talk show with two UGM alumni, Onny Hendro Adhiaksono and Nur Agis Aulia, both of whom have been actively supporting student education initiatives.
They shared their career journeys, the motivations behind their decision to become donors, and their perspectives on the importance of sustaining educational access for young people.
Through their stories and reflections, UGM reiterated that cross-generational collaboration plays a vital role in strengthening the scholarship ecosystem and building meaningful solidarity for students.
The Appreciation and Inspiration Night concluded with a message of collaboration to broaden inclusive access to education for all Indonesian children.
At this moment, UGM and its partners reaffirmed their shared commitment to providing continuous support to students from diverse social backgrounds.
“Through collective effort, we can ensure that every Indonesian child has equal opportunities to learn and contribute to society,” the vice-rector concluded.
Author: Triya Andriyani
Post-editor: Lintang Andwyna
Photographer: Donnie Trisfian