10 November 2025 — Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) held a National Heroes’ Day commemoration ceremony on Monday (10/11) at the Ceremony Field of the UGM Central Building. The ceremony was attended by the UGM academic community, including university leaders, lecturers, educational staff, and students, as a form of respect for the national heroes who fought for Indonesia’s independence.
The ceremony was led by the Rector of UGM, Prof. dr. Ova Emilia, M.Med.Ed., Sp.OG(K)., Ph.D.., who served as the ceremony inspector. In her address, she conveyed that the commemoration of Heroes’ Day is not merely about remembering the services of past fighters, but also serves as a moment of reflection to foster a spirit of dedication and tangible contributions to the nation.
“Heroic values do not stop at the physical struggles of the past. In this modern era, being a hero means having the courage to innovate, maintaining integrity, and contributing to the advancement of society,” Prof. Ova stated in her remarks.
She also invited the entire UGM academic community to emulate the spirit of perseverance, mutual cooperation, and social concern passed down by the nation’s heroes. “UGM, as a people-oriented university, must continue to play an active role in responding to national challenges, particularly in the fields of education, research, and community service,” she added.
The ceremony proceeded solemnly with a series of activities including the recitation of the Pancasila text, the 1945 Constitution, heroic messages, and a moment of silence to honor fallen fighters. Patriotic songs were also performed by the UGM student choir accompanied by the UGM student symphony music, adding a sense of emotion and nationalism to the bright morning atmosphere.
In addition to participation from all faculties and work units, several UGM students also presented artistic performances with a heroic theme after the ceremony concluded. These activities symbolized the spirit of the younger generation to continue upholding the values of struggle amid the dynamics of the times.
FKG UGM also took part in the Heroes’ Day commemoration ceremony at Balairung UGM. The FKG UGM contingent consisted of lecturers, educational staff, and students, complementing the UGM academic community at the ceremony grounds. The Head of the Administrative Office of FKG UGM, Wulansari, S.S., stated, “FKG UGM continues to move forward both academically and within civil society; this is part of carrying on the struggle. The struggle today comes with different challenges of the times. It is not easy, but through synergy, FKG UGM can overcome them together,” explained Wulansari.
By adopting the national theme, “My Hero, My Role Model: Continuing to Move Forward and Carrying on the Struggle,”this year’s Heroes’ Day commemoration is expected to strengthen national character and the spirit of mutual cooperation within the UGM campus environment.
(Correspondent: Andri Wicaksono)
