YOGYAKARTA — The 80th anniversary of Indonesia’s independence was marked with solemnity and pride at UIN Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta on Sunday (August 17, 2025). More than a ceremonial flag-raising, the event became a historic moment for the university when 89 of its lecturers and staff were conferred the Satyalancana Karya Satya and official commendations signed by President Prabowo Subianto.
The awards, formalized through Presidential Decree No. 58/TK/2025 on July 22, 2025, and No. 2/TK/2025 on January 3, 2025, represent the state’s highest recognition for long-standing dedication, loyalty, and service by civil servants in education, research, and public service—anchored on the values of Pancasila and the 1945 Constitution.
Presiding over the ceremony, Rector Prof. Noorhaidi Hasan delivered the Independence Day address of Yogyakarta’s Governor, Sri Sultan Hamengkubuwono X. He urged the academic community to draw lessons from the spirit of Indonesia’s founding generation, who transformed Bhinneka Tunggal Ika (Unity in Diversity) from a slogan into a way of life. “While today’s challenges differ, Indonesia still demands courage, resilience, and a collective spirit to navigate technological disruption and global instability,” he said.
The ceremony also reflected cultural pride.
Faculty and staff wore Wastra Nusantara,
traditional textiles from across the archipelago, their vibrant patterns and
colors embodying the year’s theme: United in
Sovereignty, Prosperous People, Advancing Indonesia.
The awards were presented directly by Prof.
Noorhaidi, alongside Senate Chair Prof. Dr. Kamsi and Head of Administration
and Finance Dr. Ali Sodiq. Of the 89 honorees, 20 received the medal for 30
years of service, 15 for 20 years, and 54 for 10 years.
Prof. Noorhaidi emphasized that such recognition is not merely ceremonial but a moral compass for the institution. “These awards affirm decades of devotion to education and public service. May this inspire renewed commitment to integrity and a stronger contribution to Indonesia’s future,” he stated.
For UIN Sunan Kalijaga, the dual celebration of independence and recognition of academic dedication symbolizes its broader mission: advancing higher education, fostering religious moderation, and cultivating globally competitive human resources. As Indonesia steps into its ninth decade of independence, the university’s pledge remains clear—to stand at the forefront of knowledge, integrity, and national progress.