A total of 1,950 participants from 47 community groups enlivened the Nitilaku cultural parade on Sunday (Dec. 15) as part of Universitas Gadjah Mada’s 75th Anniversary and 15th Lustrum celebrations.
Representatives from UGM faculties, schools, alumni association (Kagama) chapters across regions, and various hobbyist communities participated in the festive event.
The participants wore traditional attire and vintage clothing and showcased creative displays, such as gunungan (offerings of crops), ogoh-ogoh (effigies), and animal-inspired ornaments.
The parade commenced at UGM Boulevard and concluded at the Balairung Hall, following the western side of the campus.
The Chair of Kagama Central Board, Basuki Hadimuljono, led the opening ceremony, accompanied by Dr. Arie Sujito, the UGM Vice Rector for Student Affairs, Community Service, and Alumni.
Adopting the theme, Nitilaku 2024 embodied the spirit of intergenerational collaboration and integration of various elements—UGM academics, cultural communities, the public and private sectors, and government institutions.
UGM Rector Professor Ova Emilia stated that the Nitilaku parade has become a tradition to honor the historical journey of UGM at its Bulaksumur campus.
The cultural parade symbolizes a strategic bond between the palace, campus, and society.
“Nitilaku serves as a reminder for all academics and alumni of UGM’s mission to enlighten the nation while reaffirming UGM as a cultural university,” she said.
The rector also expressed gratitude and appreciation to alumni from various regions for their enthusiastic participation in the Kagama board’s initiative.
She hoped this event would strengthen ties so Kagama and society could collaborate to preserve local wisdom and maintain a harmonious relationship between the campus, the palace, and the broader community.
“It is a source of pride to see Kagama gathered here at UGM, demonstrating a lasting and genuine connection between alumni and their alma mater,” Professor Emilia concluded.
Basuki Hadimuljono highlighted that the Nitilaku 2024 parade reaffirms UGM’s identity as a university of struggle, the people, unity, culture, and Pancasila.
He emphasized their commitment to contributing to society under Kagama’s tagline guyub, rukun, migunani (togetherness, harmony, and usefulness).
“Together, Indonesia will advance with Kagama,” he declared.
The event culminated with Kagama Lari Untuk Berbagi (KLUB) handing over IDR 183 million scholarships to UGM.
The funds raised through the UGM Ultra 75K Charity Run (UUCR) will be distributed through the Gadjah Mada Peduli program alongside Kagama’s scholarship initiatives.
As part of the Nitilaku celebrations, the UGM Knowledge Exhibition, showcasing the university’s historical journey, innovations, and contributions to various scientific fields, has been held since Dec. 14 and will run until UGM’s Anniversary on Dec. 19.
In addition, from Dec. 14-15, the public could enjoy art performances, the Pasar Kangen nostalgic market, an MSME market featuring traditional and modern arts, and a variety of culinary delights and vintage products.
Author: Triya Andriyani
Photographer: Firsto