Amid rapid technological advances in translation, translators and interpreters remain irreplaceable. Sensitivity, cultural knowledge, and the expert ability to convey nuance, rhetorical language, and writing styles reinforce a level of expertise that machines cannot replicate. Even interpreters, particularly in diplomacy, continue to rely on human interaction to ensure accuracy and trust in international exchanges.
To enhance transdisciplinary translation practices and strengthen students’ skills in cultural diplomacy and international careers, Universitas Gadjah Mada and Institut Français Yogyakarta (IFI) will hold the “Summer Course on Translation, Interpreting and Creative Writing” workshop on May 18-22, 2026, at Gelanggang Inovasi dan Kreativitas Universitas Gadjah Mada (GIK UGM). The workshop is intended for French language students from universities in Indonesia and Malaysia, French interns involved in teaching French as a foreign language (FLE), and high school French teachers.
Vice Rector for Education and Teaching, Professor Wening Udasmoro, stated that the workshop will feature approximately thirteen speakers from France, Malaysia, and Indonesia who specialize in creative writing, translation, and interpreting.
“The conference and writing workshops are designed for French language students and teachers,” said Professor Wening on Friday (May. 8).
According to Professor Wening, the seminar and workshop, supported by the Embassy of France in Indonesia, Erlangga, GIK UGM, and Institut Français Paris, offer professional opportunities for French-language students in translation and interpreting.
In addition, the discussions will examine the role of artificial intelligence in translation practices while strengthening intercultural understanding between France and Indonesia.
Professor Wening explained that during the workshop sessions, speakers will discuss creative writing as a means of disseminating ideas and culture, thereby encouraging intercultural understanding. The workshop will also explore creative writing as a space for dialogue between cultural heritage and contemporary creation. References may be drawn from Indonesia’s cultural richness, including folktales, oral traditions, and narrative figures.
“Writing practices can also be adapted to educational contexts, enabling university and school students to develop language skills while strengthening their confidence and openness to the world,” she said.
Professor Wening noted that between 1958 and 2019, only 54 Indonesian novels were translated into French. However, there has been a significant increase in translation projects in recent years, particularly following the publication of Sato l’impie by Eka Kurniawan in France in May 2026, translated into French by Dominique Vitalyos and Cécile Bellat. Nevertheless, efforts to support the dissemination of literary works between the two countries are still needed.
Professor Wening also highlighted that all sessions will be conducted in French, except for the English-language creative writing workshop on the final day, which will be free and open to the public. Participating speakers include Léonor Graser, Nathanael Frérot, Laddy Lesmana, Elisabeth Inandiak, Sajarwa, Dr. Hazlina Binti Abdul Hamid, Dr. Shobehah, Dr. Ahmad Kamil Bin Ghazali, Dr. Hayatul Cholsy, Merry Andriani, Jean Pascal Elbaz, Laure Leroy, and Cécile Bellat.
Author: Hanifah
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Post-editor: Jasmine Ferdian
Photo: Magnific