The Gadjah Mada Dentistry Alumni Association (KAKGIGAMA) has shown its support for students at the Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Gadjah Mada (FKG UGM). On 2 September 2024, KAKGIGAMA awarded educational scholarships to 12 students, comprising 2 students from the Dental Hygiene Study Program and 10 students from the Dentistry Professional Program.
The scholarships provided are in the form of tuition subsidies (UKT) amounting to IDR 28,075,000. These funds come from contributions made by KAKGIGAMA alumni as a tangible expression of their care and support for current students.
The Dean of FKG UGM, Prof. drg. Suryono, S.H., M.M., Ph.D., expressed his deep gratitude to KAKGIGAMA for their initiative in helping students with their education costs. "This scholarship is very meaningful for students with financial limitations," said the Dean. He also added that the scholarship helps strengthen the connection between current students and FKG UGM alumni.
KAKGIGAMA Secretary, drg. Owin Bambang Wijanarko, Sp.Pros., MARS., said the scholarship collection is a real demonstration of the alumni's care for FKG UGM students.
drg. Owin emphasized that KAKGIGAMA is ready to act as foster parents, providing support and guidance for FKG UGM students. Through this mentorship, alumni acting as foster parents can monitor the academic progress of the students.
He added that personal relationships between alumni and students are expected to develop well. “Alumni can serve as mentors for students throughout their studies,” said drg. Owin.
At the event, the scholarships were symbolically awarded to Divanti Tanasya, representing the Dental Hygiene Study Program, and Virta Nikethea, representing the Dentistry Professional Program.
The scholarship presentation was witnessed by Dr. drg. Laelia Dwi Anggraini, Sp.KGA, Coordinator of KAKGIGAMA Yogyakarta Region; drg. Mohammad Fadyl Yunizar, MPH, Ph.D., Head of the Student Affairs and Counseling Unit at FKG UGM; and Prayudha Benni Setiawan, S.Kp.G., MPH, representing the Head of the Dental Hygiene Study Program at FKG UGM.
Through the implementation of these educational scholarships, FKG UGM, in collaboration with KAKGIGAMA, strives to realize inclusive education for students in need. This is in line with FKG UGM's commitment to providing equal opportunities for all students, regardless of their economic background.
Author: Fajar Budi H. | Photo: Fajar Budi H.