Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) reaffirmed its commitment to becoming a globally recognized and sustainable university during the 75th Dies Natalis celebration.
UGM aims to contribute to sustainability by encouraging its academic community to help address the impacts of climate change, a pressing global challenge.
“This is an extraordinary foundation for future generations, ensuring the planet remains sustainable for healthier living,” said UGM Rector, Professor Ova Emilia, in a statement to the press on Thursday, Dec. 19.
In her Rector’s Report, Professor Emilia highlighted UGM’s dedication to strengthening national values and fostering civility, starting with collaborative research to create real solutions for the nation’s challenges.
UGM has produced various innovative works supporting food security, healthcare resilience, energy sustainability, and digital transformation.
During the event, Professor Faruk, a professor from the Faculty of Cultural Sciences (FIB UGM), delivered a scientific oration titled “Strengthening Nationalism and Civility in Modern Indonesia to Achieve Justice, Prosperity, and Welfare.”
He underscored the critical role of higher education, including UGM, in shaping generations with a strong sense of nationalism and the capacity to build civility amidst global dynamics.
Through education, Professor Faruk argued, it is possible to develop superior human resources capable of creating just policies and innovations that promote equitable welfare.
“Most importantly, education can strengthen the nation’s character to prioritize social justice,” he stated.
He emphasized that UGM, as a 75-year-old institution, should teach knowledge and mold a resilient and virtuous national character ready to shoulder the responsibility of creating a just, prosperous, and thriving Indonesia.
“Through collaboration, innovation, and a spirit of nationalism, we can realize a better Indonesia for a brighter future,” Professor Faruk concluded.
At the conclusion of the 75th Dies Natalis Open Meeting, UGM honored several individuals for their dedication, exceptional contributions, and service that have positively impacted the nation.
The recipients of the UGM Awards included Dr. Susanti for her contributions to molecular pathology and pharmacology in cancer; Professor Nyoman Kertia for his work in herbal medicine and cultural studies; Professor Saiful Deni for his community empowerment and poverty alleviation efforts; and Alissa Wahid for her advocacy in diversity moderation and peacebuilding.
In addition, Professor KH Haedar Nashir received the prestigious Hamengku Buwono IX Award for his significant contributions to education, social issues, politics, and humanity.
Special recognition was also awarded to Dr. Basuki Hadimuljono for his significant efforts in realizing Wanagama Nusantara.
As a UGM alumnus, he has committed to integrating science and technology to create a better ecosystem in the core area of the new capital city. His innovative technologies have ensured that the development is environmentally friendly and contributes to societal well-being.
The 75th Dies Natalis Open Meeting and 15th Lustrum were held at Grha Sabha Pramana. Members of the academic community and guests in traditional Indonesian attire attended.
Notable national figures present included UGM MWA Chair Pratikno, Ganjar Pranowo, Deputy Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs Nezar Patria, Deputy Minister of Marine and Fisheries Didit Herdiawan, BMKG Head Dwikorita Karnawati, and Deputy Minister of Law Eddy Hiarej.
Author: Triya Andriyani
Photographer: Donnie