The increasing cases of alcohol consumption in Yogyakarta have become a significant concern for the community, including the Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) campus environment.
The Raja Garuda UGM Community, a student group focused on raising awareness about narcotics, cigarettes, gambling, and illegal online loans, officially declared its commitment to combat alcohol abuse.
Chairperson of the Raja Garuda UGM Community, Nur Kumalatuz Zahroh, stated that the declaration reflects the strong commitment of UGM students to fight the distribution and consumption of alcohol within the academic community.
The event also invited representatives from various Student Activity Units (UKM), communities, and student organizations to support the movement.
“Through educational initiatives included in this event, we hope it will serve as a preventive measure for students to recognize the dangers of alcohol,” said Zahroh in a statement sent to journalists on Friday (Nov. 22).
Zahroh added that the declaration was read on Sunday (Nov. 17.) in the Auditorium of the Faculty of Biology. The declaration outlined several key points made by the students.
First, UGM students are committed to creating a healthy, safe, and alcohol-free campus environment to promote the community’s physical, mental, and academic well-being.
This step was taken as part of efforts to maintain a conducive environment for intellectual and character development. It enables students to focus on personal growth and improve the quality of their learning.
Second, students rejected all forms of alcohol consumption, distribution, and promotion on campus and during university-organized activities.
This statement aligns with UGM’s values and principles, prioritizing the safety, health, and welfare of its academic community.
By emphasizing the rejection of alcohol, they aim to create a safer and more positive campus atmosphere where all members can thrive without external harmful influences.
Third, students declared their support for education and prevention programs addressing alcohol misuse while promoting preventive efforts through positive activities to foster a supportive campus environment.
Through this approach, they hope to establish a healthier and more encouraging campus where individuals feel secure and motivated to avoid negative behaviors that harm themselves and others.
Lastly, they pledged to actively safeguard the university’s reputation by reporting and addressing any violations related to alcohol on campus.
Dr. Hempri Suyatna, Secretary of the UGM Directorate of Student Affairs, who attended the declaration reading, welcomed the initiative. He expressed hope that students, as agents of development, would act as a “tonic” rather than a “toxic” force in tackling alcohol-related issues.
“Solving alcohol-related problems requires a comprehensive approach, addressing legal, religious, cultural, economic, and political dimensions. Students must take an active role in alcohol prevention,” he said.
Author: Lintang
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Post-editor: Afif