Yogyakarta, July 7, 2025 — Under the shade of trees at UIN Sunan Kalijaga's General Administration Center, a powerful message unfolded as the university launched KKN Nusantara 2025 and KKN Berdampak. Among the hundreds of students donning green alma mater jackets were 14 students with disabilities—each ready to serve, learn, and lead. Their presence marked not only a ceremonial departure, but a profound statement of inclusion in higher education.

As the soft notes of acoustic music played by Gita Divana, a group composed of students with disabilities and their peers, filled the air, a volunteer interpreted every lyric into sign language—amplifying a spirit of empathy that would define the day.

Rector Prof. Noorhaidi Hasan framed the KKN program as a transformative encounter with Indonesia’s diversity. “Yogyakarta is a space of cultural convergence. Here, you’ll learn to embrace diversity and live with character,” he said. This year’s theme, “Merawat Ekoteologi, Membangun Negeri” (Caring for Ecotheology, Building the Nation), was described as a holistic act of faith grounded in care for the Earth.

Vice Rector Dr. Abdur Rozaki charged students to integrate with the people and work in service. “Work with the people, not above them. Be part of the solution,” he urged.

A total of 340 students from 34 PTKIN and one PTKIS will be deployed across Kalibawang, Kulon Progo. They bring with them the richness of diverse identities, with the 14 students with disabilities standing as trailblazers of UIN Sunan Kalijaga’s long-standing commitment to inclusive education.

Their participation, supported by the university’s Pusat Layanan Difabel (Center for Disability Services), highlights a comprehensive ecosystem that ensures physical access, communication support, and social adaptation. “This is more than just participation—it’s a journey of self-proof and independence,” said Asep Jahidin, the Center’s Coordinator.

Lilik Andi Aryanto, Head of Kesbangpol DIY, encouraged students to model harmony and respect in community life, while Dr. Nur Khafid from the Ministry of Religious Affairs urged them to embody the spirit of Sunan Kalijaga—integrated, grounded, and impactful.

To reinforce safety, the university coordinated a symbolic handover of BPJS Ketenagakerjaan insurance to the students. It served not only as a gesture of care but as institutional readiness to protect every student regardless of their background.

The event closed with a symbolic handprint ceremony on an "ecotheology tree," followed by a balloon release into the Yogyakarta sky—bearing prayers, commitment, and a quiet promise: that inclusion is no longer an ideal, but a lived practice at UIN Sunan Kalijaga.