The Nitilaku Parade at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) took place, commemorating the university’s 75th anniversary and its 15th Lustrum. The event attracted thousands of participants, including PSPSR UGM’s academic community, alumni, and local residents, filling the Sekip and Bulaksumur areas of the campus in a celebration that was not just a ceremony, but also a powerful reinforcement of national unity.
This year’s Nitilaku Parade was not merely a procession—it was a profound journey back in time, reflecting the long history of UGM from its founding in Kraton to its current location in Sekip and Bulaksumur. The event encouraged participants to reflect on the spirit of struggle that led to the establishment of the university and its significant role in Indonesia’s history. The parade conveyed a powerful message of national unity, reminding everyone that despite Indonesia’s diversity, the spirit of togetherness remains essential.
The theme for this year’s Nitilaku Parade, “Silaturahmi Kebangsaan: Merawat Harmoni, Merawat Semangat Persatuan” (National Brotherhood: Nurturing Harmony, Preserving the Spirit of Unity), resonated with a call for cross-generational collaboration and integration among various societal elements. From UGM’s academic community to the general public, from business sectors to government institutions, the theme underscored the importance of solidarity in a diverse nation. In a year marked by global uncertainty, this event served as a reminder of the strength found in unity rather than division.
The celebration began with the “Jejak Pengetahuan UGM” (UGM Knowledge Trail) Exhibition, which ran from December 14-19, 2024. The exhibition presented a compelling narrative of UGM’s history, showcasing its significant contributions to various fields of knowledge and its ongoing innovations. From the post-independence era to the present day, UGM has played a crucial role in shaping Indonesia’s educational landscape and supporting the nation’s development. This exhibition allowed visitors to witness the university’s evolution into a leading center for academic excellence in Southeast Asia.
Alongside the exhibition, the event featured performances on the Cultural Stage, a Kangen Market (Nostalgia Market), and an UMKM (Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises) Market, held on December 14-15. These activities brought together traditional and modern arts, along with a variety of local delicacies and traditional products, offering a sensory journey through Indonesia’s rich cultural heritage. The Kangen Market, filled with nostalgic snacks from the past, and the UMKM Market, showcasing locally produced goods, highlighted the creative energy and entrepreneurial spirit fostered by both UGM and its alumni community, KAGAMA. This confluence of academia and local culture exemplified UGM’s commitment to fostering community engagement and celebrating Indonesian heritage.
Through the Nitilaku Parade, UGM once again proved that it is more than just an academic institution; it is a cultural force that unites, inspires, and fosters a sense of belonging. The event not only commemorated UGM’s achievements but also reinforced the importance of unity in diversity—a message that resonates deeply, both within Indonesia and globally. As visitors enjoyed traditional snacks, admired local arts, and relished the nostalgia of the past, they were reminded of the enduring values that bind the Indonesian people together. This activity aligns with SDG No. 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions) and No. 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). (MRL)
