As part of its 74th anniversary, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) took the opportunity to celebrate the literary works of Indonesia’s legendary poet WS Rendra in the “Bulaksumur Cultural Night: Reflections on WS Rendra’s Verse” on Saturday, December 9.
“This evening is an appreciation night for WS Rendra’s legacy, as well as the soft launch of the book Srikandi from the Blue Campus. This book is an inspiration, underscoring the capability of women to lead national institutions. It’s not easy; not many institutions in our country are led by women,” said the Secretary of UGM, Dr. Andi Sandi Antonius Tabusassa Tonralipu.
The legendary tales of three heroines symbolize the strength of women as strong leaders and commanders. This represents the powerful representation of women in the present, including as leaders of educational institutions.
The book “Srikandi from the Blue Campus” tells the journey of the wives of UGM rectors, including two female UGM rectors, one of whom still holds the position, Professor Ova Emilia, MD.
The stories are accompanied by profound messages about women as leaders, striving to inspire women to realize their leadership capabilities. The book shows UGM’s commitment to bolstering the role of women and elevating gender representation.
“Our annual visits to the homes of the rectors’ wives ahead of the anniversary’s pinnacle gave us an idea to create this book. These visits became a source of joy as we encountered warm and welcoming atmospheres in the homes we visited. The inspirational stories shared during these interactions felt too valuable to be kept only for us,” said UGM Women’s Association (DWP) chair Dr. Indun Dewi Puspita.
UGM, as a cultural campus, is committed to disseminating the noble culture of Indonesia in every step. The Bulaksumur Cultural Night is one of the manifestations of UGM’s role as a cultural center.
For years, excellent individuals like WS Rendra have been nurtured at the blue campus. His contributions to literature have made him a renowned poet. His works present a distinctive language that touches the heart while vehemently expressing the social and political issues of his time.
According to Professor Siti Chamamah Soeratno of the UGM Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Rendra is worthy of remembrance. Every event in his life was processed through deep thought and lengthy contemplation before being poured into poetry.
WS Rendra is a prominent name in the world of literature and culture. Rendra’s reputation as a writer, playwright, and poet is known nationally and internationally. After earning the nickname “The Peacock,” Rendra began publishing his poems in magazines in the 1960s.
Although he did not complete his undergraduate program in English Literature at the UGM Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Rendra was awarded an honorary doctorate from UGM on March 4, 2008.
“The conferment of an honorary doctorate to Rendra is a form of recognition that academically he meets the requirements to receive that academic title,” said the Cultural Night initiator Heru Marwata.
In addition, no one doubted the competence and role of WS Rendra in literature, especially poetry and drama. With the Bengkel Teater he initiated, Rendra’s dramatic performances consistently garnered praise.
“Therefore, it doesn’t seem excessive for UGM to hold a special event with his name on the title to commemorate and honor his services and contributions to art, culture, and literature,” Marwata said.
Author: Tasya