Professor Ova Emilia, the Rector of UGM, oversaw the voting process at several locations of the special polling stations (TPS Loksus) at UGM on Wednesday (Feb. 14). The inspection aimed to ensure that the entire election process at TPS Loksus proceeded smoothly and adhered to regulations.
“Thus far, everything is proceeding well. The waiting time for voting is manageable, and the process is well-organized to accommodate arrivals,” the rector remarked during her visit to TPS 901 & 902, TPS Loksus at Asrama Ratnaningsih 1 in Depok, Sleman.
The rector emphasized that the establishment of UGM’s TPS Loksus reflects the university’s commitment to supporting the 2024 elections. These special polling stations enable students, especially those from outside Yogyakarta, to exercise their voting rights.
“A total of 2,611 registered student voters from UGM and 12 other universities in Yogyakarta are expected to participate and cast their votes,” she stated.
UGM played a significant role in facilitating students from out-of-town to participate in the 2024 elections by setting up nine special polling stations across five locations in UGM’s student dormitories.
These special polling stations include TPS 901 and 902 at Asrama Ratnaningsih Kinanti 1 with 589 voters, TPS 903 and TPS 904 at Asrama Ratnaningsih Kinanti 2 & 3 with 584 voters, TPS 922 and TPS 923 at Asrama Ratnaningsih Sendowo with 509 voters, TPS 905 and TPS 906 at Asrama Darmaputera Santren with 590 voters, and Asrama Darmaputera Karanggayam with 280 voters.
Dr. Arie Sujito, the Vice-Rector for Student Affairs, Community Service, and Alumni, highlighted that the purpose of establishing TPS Loksus extends beyond facilitating out-of-town student voters. It also serves as a platform for political education for UGM students.
The voting process at UGM’s TPS Loksus involves 36 independent supervisors and 63 polling station working committee members from UGM students.
“UGM’s TPS Loksus serves as a political education platform for our students, enhancing their understanding of the election process. This initiative aligns with our efforts to nurture responsible citizens,” he explained.
Dr. Sujito emphasized the significance of students’ involvement in organizing elections, which tests their maturity and prepares them for future civic engagement.
“The voting process has been smooth and peaceful, with no reported incidents. Any issues that arise will be promptly communicated and addressed in coordination with Bawaslu (Election Supervisory Board),” he assured.
The presence of UGM’s TPS Loksus was met with gratitude by out-of-town students like Audelia Fitri, a Sociology student from Bengkulu, who appreciated the opportunity to vote without returning home.
“I am relieved and grateful to be able to contribute to shaping Indonesia’s future leadership,” she expressed.
Juhail, a Forestry student from Pematang Siantar, echoed similar sentiments, expressing joy in fulfilling his civic duty by participating in the election.
“This is my first time participating in an election to choose our leaders for the next five years, and I am thrilled,” he shared.
Author: Ika
Photographer: Donnie