UNU Jogja Celebrates 81st Indonesian Independence Day with Campus Community and Local Residents

Yogyakarta, Indonesia — Universitas Nahdlatul Ulama Yogyakarta (UNU Jogja) commemorated the 81st anniversary of the Independence of the Republic of Indonesia by holding a flag-raising ceremony at the UNU Jogja campus, Monday, August 17.

Carrying the spirit of A Sovereign, Just, and Prosperous Indonesia, the Independence Day celebration served as a moment for the UNU Jogja community to reaffirm national spirit, unity, and commitment to serving Indonesian society.

Acting Rector of UNU Jogja, Dr. Fahmy Akbar Idries, served as the ceremony’s inspector. The ceremony was attended by the UNU Jogja community, including university leaders, lecturers, education staff, employees, and students. The ceremony proceeded solemnly, marked by the raising of the Red and White flag and a tribute to the national flag.

In his address, Fahmy emphasized that Independence Day is not only a moment to commemorate the contributions of the nation's predecessors but also a reminder for the current generation to continue their struggle through their respective roles and responsibilities.

He also highlighted the contributions of Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) figures to the struggle to defend Indonesia's independence. According to him, the spirit of this struggle must continue to be upheld in today's context, including through service in the field of education.

“The struggle of our predecessors, including NU scholars and figures, did not end when Indonesia gained independence. Today, we continue that struggle through service, education, and meaningful contributions according to our respective responsibilities,” said Fahmy.

He added that the UNU Jogja academic community has a responsibility to fill independence through sincere work, maintaining unity, and creating benefits for society.

“As part of UNU Jogja, let us make this independence a source of energy to keep learning, working, collaborating, and contributing to society. Independence must be filled with meaningful work and service that brings benefits to the community,” he added.

Independence Parade Strengthens Ties Between Campus and Local Community

Following the ceremony, the UNU Jogja community continued the Independence Day celebration with a parade featuring traditional clothing from various regions of Indonesia. The parade took participants around the UNU Jogja campus and the surrounding area of Dowangan Hamlet, Banyuraden Village, Gamping District, Sleman Regency, while also greeting local residents.

During the parade, the UNU Jogja community distributed cooking oil to local residents as part of the university's efforts to strengthen its relationship with the surrounding community.

“This is one of our efforts to get to know the surrounding community and strengthen our relationship with local residents,” said UNU Jogja Executive Secretary, Suharti.

The celebration continued with various competitions organized to enliven the 81st Independence Day commemoration. The competitions included tug-of-war and a movement-guessing game, which were participated in by the UNU Jogja community.

The 81st Independence Day celebration at UNU Jogja concluded with prizes for the competition winners. The committee also presented an award for the best traditional outfit, recognizing the enthusiasm of the university community in celebrating Indonesia's Independence Day.*

Reporter: Latifah