The Senate Hall of Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) was packed with an enthusiastic and boisterous energy as Prof. Dr. Hendrokumoro, M.Hum was inaugurated as the professor of Linguistics in the Faculty of Cultural Science, UGM. The event started at 09.00, followed by Prof Hendrokumoro’s moving speech as the main spotlight of the event.

In the speech “Eksistensi Bahasa Jawa Saat Ini: Peran, Tantangan, dan Peluangnya,” Prof Hendrokumoro highlights the current issues regarding the Javanese language, especially the number of speakers who are gradually decreasing to limited contexts, such as in family environments and traditional communication.

The decreasing trend alarmingly indicates the endangerment of the Javanese. In addition to that, several local languages, Tandia (Papua), Mawes (Papua), Palumata (Papua), Tugun (Papua), Saponi (Papua), Piru (Maluku), Kajeli/Kayeli (Maluku), Moksela (Maluku), Palumata (Maluku), Naka’ela (Maluku), Ternateno (Maluku Utara), Hukumina (Maluku), Hoti (Maluku), Serua (Maluku), Nila (Maluku), are bound to go extinct. Thus, Prof Hendrokumoro earnestly emphasized the importance of conserving the linguistic legacy of local languages, particularly his expertise in Javanese.

Given its rich variety, Javanese is heavily grounded in four fundamentals: the relationship between human beings and God, human beings and their kind, human beings and themselves, and human beings and the universe. This enables a more flexible approach to Javanese learning. Prof Hendrokumoro suggested integrating contemporary cultural elements, such as Javanese pop music and movies, into the curriculum. “Javanese popular songs such as ‘Rungkad,’ ‘Satru,’ and ‘Kisinan,’ as well as the movies ‘Yowis Ben,’ and ‘Lara Ati’ can be an intriguing tool to encourage the young generation learning Javanese,” Prof Hendrokumoro stated.

The inauguration of Prof Hendrokumoro creates the spirit of academia to embrace and maintain the local language as Indonesia’s identity. It raises awareness of the conservation essence in language education.

Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, is a time of spiritual reflection, fasting, prayer, and charity. During this precious time, Keluarga Linguistik Universitas Gadjah Mada (Kalingga), under the division of community social action, initiated Kalingga Berbagi, or charity events held concurrently on March 15, 2025, and March 19, 2025.

“After an extensive preparation of place research, concept, and funding, Kalingga managed to held its charity in the first round of 2025,” Asma Haniza said. As form of gratitude, the first charity was conducted by breaking the fast with children who had memorized the Quran and underprivileged orphans in Pondok Pesantren Tahfidzhul Qur’an Ar-Ridho, Bantul. All members of the community social action division and members of other divisions in Kalingga attended the event.

In addition to breaking the fast together, these children were also asked to make a ‘river of life,’ a drawing of river representing a journey, life’s flow, and future dreams. Each child was also asked to present their drawings, evoking interactive discussion and bonding between Kalingga and the children from Pondok Pesantren Tahfidzhul Qur’an Ar-Ridho, Bantul.

The second charity event was held four days after, on March 19, 2025. The charity included sharing iftar packages for those in needs and a small community in Sleman, particularly in Jalan Teknik Utara (in front of PAU UGM), Jalan Kaliurang KM 5,7 (near Kentungan traffic lights), Jalan Agro, Karang Gayam (around Gor Klebengan), and Jalan Gejayan. Before the charity, all Kalingga divisions contribute to prepare the logistics so that the event can be held smoothly. The distribution of iftar packages started in Ngabuburit time around 16.00-17.30 WIB.

Kalingga’s person in charge in this event, Sitti Aglitasia, suggested that this charity was Kalingga’s manifestation of care toward the underprivileged community. The head of community social action, Desy Anggraini, also added that this event enhances empathy among Kalingga members and bridging the gap between Kalingga and those in needs, evoking a sense of togetherness.

Amidst the joy of Eid Al Fitr and the Easter holiday, Linguistics students have done a stellar job not only in presenting their current linguistics research but also in the academic essay competition. In April 2025, 18 students successfully attended national and international seminars and gained third place in the scientific paper competition as well as a gold medal in Porsenigama’s Futsal Competition. They presented papers on translation, historical comparative linguistics, anthropological linguistics, pragmatics, and descriptive linguistics.

These students have demonstrated a profound understanding of the complexities of language, showcasing their ability to dissect, analyze, and articulate intricate linguistic concepts with remarkable clarity. Their papers delve into the urgency of language and literature preservation, as well as language and culture. In addition to enriching the versatility of linguistics, their observations on local languages, ranging from Makassar, Mandar, Javanese, Aceh, Sunda, and Mooi languages, provide an adequate documentation that is valuable to understand language evolution and variation in Indonesia’s archipelago.

Some students also successfully provide an elaborated explanation of the relationship between language and culture. The study of offering names in Saparan Ki Ageng Wonolelo by Annisa Nur Hidayati and Nisa Halisa Hakim, for instance, highlights how language has long been imprinted and employed to give important meaning in every region’s local wisdom. One of the students who presented a paper in Seminar Nasional Bahasa Ibu XVII, Rozana Argandari, also emphasizes how local languages, such as Mooi, possess a very limited speakers, making preservation and documentation very crucial.

The Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) senate hall has witnessed an important academic transition for Prof. Dr. Sajarwa, M.Hum, as the professor of Translation and Linguistics at the Faculty of Cultural Sciences. This event not only marks a personal achievement for Prof. Sajarwa but also highlights UGM’s continuous endeavors to advance education and research in the linguistic field.

This inauguration was held on Tuesday, February 25^th, 2025. The honorable members of the Board of Trustees, Vice Chancellor, Council of Professors, and the Academic Senate of the Faculty of Cultural Science also attended and collectively participated in the inauguration celebration. The event also broadcast live, allowing a wider audience to participate virtually through UGM’s YouTube channel.

Prof. Sajarwa, in his speech, entitled “Transformasi Manajemen Muka dalam Penerjemahan Kesantunan Bahasa Prancis ke Bahasa Indonesia,” highlighted the complexity of translation management, notably in the field focusing on the nuance of politeness in French-Indonesian translation. His insights are projected to immensely contribute to translation studies, especially in advocating the crucial role of cultural context in effective communication.

Prof. Sajarwa’s research is congruent with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically Goal 4 which ensures quality and inclusive education for all people, regardless of gender, income, or background. Additionally, the goal promotes equal, life-long opportunities to access education. His significant contribution to linguistics and translation does not only ignite the continuous advancement in the academic field. It actively encourages people to learn cross-cultural communication and understanding that become pivotal in an increasingly globalized world.

This inauguration also posits as an important platform to discuss the education role in bridging cultural gaps. As the globalized world is developing rapidly, the need for competent translators is increasingly significant to navigate the linguistic and cultural differences shared among many countries. Therefore, Prof. Sajarwa’s expertise is hoped to inspire the next generation to take an important step in the world of language, especially in French translation.

In addition to his academic achievement, Prof. Sajarwa is actively involved in various community services that mainly focus on enhancing the quality of language education in Indonesia. His commitment to education has transcended beyond a class activity. He believes that language can be a powerful tool to unite people and help them achieve mutual understanding, providing a harmonious society where everyone respects each other.

As UGM continues to carry out its mission to advance science and education, the inauguration of Prof. Sajarwa is a testament to the university’s role in shaping the future of linguistics and translation studies in Indonesia.

The Senate Hall on Tuesday, February 11^th, 2025 was filled with excitement and applause as Dr. Suhandano, M.A. was officially inaugurated as a Professor of Anthropological Linguistics at the Faculty of Cultural Studies, Universitas Gadjah Mada. Distinguished faculty members, students, and representatives from various academic institutions also attended and celebrated the inauguration.

Prof. Suhandano, in his speech, emphasized the urgency of positive discourse analysis in ecolinguistics. He explained how language is not a mere portrayal of a speaker’s view of the environment. Language, in fact, has become a powerful tool in shaping speakers’ perceptions and actions toward the environment. The interrelation between language and environmental awareness is very essential in the implementation of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in education.

Prof. Suhandano further continued that language may not directly be the key point to tackling environmental issues. However, it has a pivotal role in constructing public attitudes and behaviors. In the academic field, an individual is equipped with language as a tool to be engaged in a lively dialogue on environmental conservation and sustainability. He took the concept of “wit angker” or haunted trees in Indonesian society that function as cultural strategies in environmental conservation. This traditional phenomenon highlights how local wisdom and language significantly contribute to sustainable practices, allowing reciprocity between culture, language, and environmental management.

A positive discourse further is expected to arouse a sense of responsibility among people toward the environment. By advocating environmental-oriented narration and encouraging sustainable practices, educators can inspire students to actively participate in conservational efforts, following the SDGs’ focus on high-quality education and a sustainable community.

The celebration of Prof. Suhandono’s achievement is a constant reminder for educational institutions of their vital role in shaping a resilient and harmonious future. The power of language is exceptional to develop a deeper understanding of our surroundings and empower individuals to take an important step toward a life worth living.

Entering a new spring semester, the Master’s Program of Linguistics hosted an academic forum for its 2024 cohort on February 7^th, 2025. The event is mainly held to facilitate a thorough discussion on the study plan and course details following the start of the second semester. Before starting the main session, the head of the Master’s Program in Linguistics, Prof. Dr. Suhandano, M.A. expressed a warm welcome and opening remarks to lecturers and students. He mentioned that this gathering would not only provide academic insights for students but also a platform to discuss any suggestions for the future growth of the Master’s Program of Linguistics.

During this session, 15 questions are collected from students, concerning thesis topics, class administration and assignments, as well as research ethics. One of the 2024 cohort, Rafika, found that the discussion provides clear guidance for the student’s academic journey, “This event helps us navigate our second semester better, with an adequate explanation of each course and the study projection.”

The event continued with the inauguration of KALINGGA (Keluarga Linguistik Universitas Gadjah Mada) 2025. The newly elected chairperson, Reski Ramadhani S., emphasizes in her speech that Kalingga belongs to all students in the Linguistics program, not only to the members of the organization. It strives to pursue innovation and accommodates the aspirations of Linguistics students. The former chairperson of Kalingga 2024, Yuliana Kristianti, also expresses gratitude for the successful run of Kalingga 2024 and encourages the new Kalingga 2025 to joyfully embrace continuous learning and growth. The session further is concluded with motivational and encouraging messages from all lecturers to start the new term with fresh eagerness for learning. “Dedicate yourself to your studies and work, also remember to find joy in the process,” said Dr. Sailal Arimi, M.Hum.

The extended family of the Master of Linguistics extends its heartfelt condolence for the passing of our dear lecturer, Dr. H. M. Masruhi, M.Hum on Tuesday, January 7, 2025 in Kediri, East Java. We pray that his good deeds will be rewarded and may God grant his family strength and courage during this difficult time.

Dedicated preparations and the completion of three-day FIBAA accreditation events have finally resulted in a positive outcome. The Master’s Program in Linguistics has been awarded by the Foundation for International Business Administration Accreditation (FIBAA) its Quality Seal on November 27, 2024, and the accreditation itself is valid until November 26, 2029.

The preparation started on June 13, 2024, when representatives of three study programs, notably the Master’s Program in Linguistics, Undergraduate Program in Philosophy, and Undergraduate Program in French Language and Literature, conducted an extensive coordination meeting. This initial preparation mainly discusses each program’s administration and valuable information for quality assessments of respective study programs.

The FIBAA international accreditation was further conducted within three consecutive assessment meetings. The first day involved extensive discussion on how the university responds to learning systems, including strategies, ranking, and research support. The dialog was also attended by the Dean of the Faculty of Cultural Sciences, the Dean of the Faculty of Philosophy, as well as all vice deans, the Head of the Master’s Program in Linguistics, the Head of the Bachelor’s Program in French Language and Literature, and the Head of Bachelor’s Program in Philosophy.

The second and third day involves lecturers, students, alumni, and staff reviewing how the learning system is applied to the study programs and how each program adapts to the ever-evolving academic and societal shifts. The representation of FIBAA further conducted a thorough review of those activities and discussions on the third day and marked the end of the whole visitation.

External assessment by reputable organizations, such as FIBAA, is essential for our study program to maintain and ensure high-quality curriculum, facilities, and learning practices. Aside from aligning with the recognized standards, accreditation is our continuous effort to stay current with the academic and professional demands, providing adequate and relevant support for students’ learning outcomes.

On December 3, 2024, lecturers of the Master’s Program in Linguistics gathered in a meeting room at the University Club to evaluate the learning process and design the next curriculum for batch 2025. The lecturers sized up the material and learning processes implemented over the past year, including students’ assignments, credit requirements, and the thesis advising process. These educational components were analyzed to serve as the foundation for following curriculum design.

The main discussion in this meeting delved into the new regulation regarding Quality Assurance of Higher Education composed in Permendikbudristek No. 53 Year 2023. One of the learning components that is highlighted is the credit total. It is stated that––in Article 19––the students are required to complete a minimum of fifty-four credit hours and a maximum of seventy-two credit hours within three to four semesters. In response, this meeting was arranged to develop a revised curriculum aligned with the requirements. The lecturers proposed a new framework for the thesis process as part of the discussion.

“We are initiating a formal assessment at each stage of the process in order to meet the credit requirements,” explained Suhandano, the head of the Master’s program in Linguistics. The outcome of the meeting was a proposal to further review by the university, rather than a final decision. 

On Saturday, November 23, 2024, Kalingga held a council meeting. It took place at S.209, Soegondo building, Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada. The meeting brought up the theme of creating and understanding the function of the University Student Organization, in which the Master’s program in Linguistics Students batch 2024 and 2023 as well as Kalingga officials participated in the meeting. 

The discussion explored the Articles of Association and Bylaws. The participants were reviewed the articles including its paragraphs. After examining the laws thoroughly and closely by considering the purpose, structure, and membership of the organization, including the roles and responsibilities, decision-making process, and disciplinary actions, there were some changes made. The participants suggested to modify and remove the clauses regarding the membership of the organization, and the rules for choosing the chairperson. 

The meeting also became the medium to showcase the organization’s accomplishments in line with the action plan and work program. Each division presented its program, allowing the participant to ask questions and offering suggestions for the next government. The last agenda was deciding the next chairperson of the organization. 

A few weeks prior, four students from batch 2024 registered to participate in the contest. They were Reski Ramadhani S., Lalu Ahmad Rofi’, Romi Lamusa, and Rizki Dwiki Reza Usman. During the meeting, they were challenged to answer some questions from the participants and deliver their program for future governance. After a discussion, a vote was held to elect the next chairperson. 52 participants voted for the chairperson, resulting Reski Ramadhani S. winning the election. Below is the summary of the vote. 

Reski Ramadhani S.: 63.5%

Lalu Ahmad Rofi’: 19.2%

Romi Lamusa: 11.5% 

Rizki Dwiki Reza Usman: 5.8%