Yogyakarta, December 14, 2025 — Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) held the Nitilaku 2025 Cultural Parade as part of the celebrations marking UGM’s 76th Anniversary on Saturday (December 14, 2025). The event proceeded in a lively atmosphere despite heavy rain that had fallen across the campus since the morning. The parade began at the UGM Roundabout and concluded at the Balairung UGM courtyard.
The Nitilaku 2025 Cultural Parade was led by the Dean of the Faculty of Dentistry (FKG UGM), Prof. drg. Suryono, SH., MM., Ph.D., and was joined by 51 contingents consisting of faculties, schools, work units, Kagama alumni communities, and regional representatives from across Indonesia. More than 1,800 participants took part, showcasing a wide variety of traditional Indonesian textiles, performing arts, and regional cultural symbols as expressions of the nation’s diversity and cultural richness.
This year’s Nitilaku carried the theme “Ruat Rawat Kebangsaan,” which signifies efforts to cleanse, preserve, and nurture national values, cultural heritage, and social harmony. The event symbolized synergy among the university, alumni, and the broader community in safeguarding tradition and national identity.
UGM Rector Prof. Dr. Ova Emilia, Ph.D., stated that Nitilaku is an annual tradition with strong historical and philosophical significance for UGM. According to her, the event is not only a celebration of the university’s anniversary but also a momentum to strengthen togetherness and reinforce the contributions of UGM and Kagama to the nation.
The 76th Anniversary celebration series also included the presentation of donations from the UGM Ultra Charity Run 76 Km for student scholarships, cultural performances, entertainment, door prize distributions, and a traditional wayang kulit (shadow puppet) performance as the closing event.
Through the Nitilaku 2025 Cultural Parade, UGM continues to reaffirm its commitment as a university that upholds cultural values, solidarity, and dedication to community service.
(Andri Wicaksono)
