UGM Peduli, in its ongoing effort to contribute positively to the community and the environment, recently organized a series of activities themed ‘Merti Bumi, Merawat Budaya, Menopang Peradaban’ (Honoring the Earth, Preserving Culture, Sustaining Civilization).
The event, which took place at Wisdom Park and Kopi Lembah, was divided into several sessions and held throughout the day on Friday (Jun. 28). This initiative by UGM Peduli aimed not only to raise awareness on critical issues related to the environment and physical health but also to promote local cultural diversity.
It provided an open platform for discussions among students, academics, practitioners, and participants to share experiences on challenges in mental health and digital transformation in facing complex social and technological changes.
Dr. Sindung Tjahyadi, Director of Student Affairs, in his opening remarks before the UGM Peduli activities commenced, explained that the theme was chosen as a call to honor nature and preserve local wisdom to support a sustainable future.
“Regarding the waste issue, our rector has signaled that by Aug. 1, a better waste management scheme must be in place. We must strive to reduce non-reusable and non-recyclable waste, and we have already found methods or solutions,” Dr. Tjahyadi expressed.
He added that one solution to reduce waste accumulation is to promote reusable items instead of disposable ones.
“Moving forward, we will encourage students to bring their lunch boxes when taking away food from the cafeteria. With UGM having around 50,000 students, it can become an agent of change. If there is a paradigm shift in waste management, I believe the change will be significant,” Dr. Tjahyadi affirmed.
Furthermore, he highlighted UGM’s current concern for mental health, emphasizing their efforts to create a comfortable and refreshing environment like Wisdom Park, where individuals can breathe fresh air to keep their minds fresh. He expressed gratitude to all units and community members who supported the organization of UGM Peduli activities.
Muhammad Fauzan Firdaus, Chair of UGM Peduli, outlined the main activities and divided them into three key points. First, the event addressed environmental issues through a cleanliness drive at Wisdom Park involving participants from diverse backgrounds. Second, UGM Peduli focused on mental health using psychotherapeutic methods through artistic mediums. Third, the event emphasized physical health, aiming to inspire and promote a healthy lifestyle among participants and the general public.
“After the cleanliness drive, there will be a talk show on the theme ‘Revisiting Civilization: Facing Social Changes in Digital Transformation.’ The event will also feature an Art Therapy session by Art Healing Indonesia, aiming to alleviate stress and prepare participants to face risks associated with rapid technological advancements,” Firdaus concluded.
Author: Triya Andriyani
Photographer: Firsto