Yogyakarta, August 12, 2025 – As part of the Lustrum XIV series, the Faculty of Biology at Gadjah Mada University (UGM) successfully held a meaningful “Javanese Classical Dance Workshop of the Jogja Style” on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, starting at 08:00 AM WIB. This event is a testament to the faculty’s commitment to maintaining the life balance of its academic community amidst busy research and academic activities.
The workshop, themed “Wiraga, Wirama, Wirasa” (Body, Rhythm, Feeling), aimed to provide a space for the entire Faculty of Biology family—from lecturers, educational staff, and students (undergraduate and postgraduate) to alumni—to unwind and balance their academic and non-academic lives. The activity was open to all, including those with no prior traditional dance experience.
Javanese classical dance, particularly Yogyakarta style, not only teaches beautiful movements but also contains a deep philosophy that benefits its dancers. This dance practice trains calmness, patience, and discipline. Participants are invited to internalize noble values such as sawiji (full concentration), greget (enthusiasm), sengguh (self-confidence without arrogance), and ora mingkuh (not easily giving up). Physically, dancing is also proven to be effective in improving balance, body strength, and health.
The workshop was led by professional dancer and trainer, Mas Tunggul Pujangkoro. With a patient and friendly approach, he successfully created a pleasant learning atmosphere and sparked high enthusiasm among the participants. This moment of togetherness was also strengthened by the faculty’s commitment to environmental issues, where participants were encouraged to bring their own water bottles as a tangible step to reduce plastic waste.
This activity is in line with UGM’s commitment to supporting the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Specifically, this dance workshop contributes to achieving SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being by providing a platform for mental and physical health. Additionally, the activity strengthens SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals by uniting various elements of the academic community in a positive and collaborative activity.
Through this event, the Faculty of Biology at UGM not only demonstrates its role as a center of academic excellence but also as a community that cares for the well-being of its members and the preservation of cultural heritage. It is hoped that similar activities can continue to be held to strengthen relationships and improve the quality of life for the entire UGM Faculty of Biology civitas.
