The Open Senate Meeting held today (August 19) marked the culmination of the 57th anniversary celebrations of the Faculty of Philosophy, which has been ongoing since May. The event, held at the Philosophy Building Auditorium, was attended by the Rector of Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), Prof. dr. Ova Emilia, M.Med.Ed., Sp.OG., Ph.D., along with deans from various faculties and schools, members of the Faculty Senate, faculty members, administrative staff, and students.
In her report, the Dean of the Faculty of Philosophy highlighted that 57 years is a significant milestone that reflects the maturity and development of the institution. The anniversary celebration is not just a ceremonial event, but also a moment for reflection on the long journey that has been shared together.
“For more than half a century, the Faculty of Philosophy has contributed to shaping generations of scholars, thinkers, and leaders of integrity. Every achievement we have reached is the result of hard work, dedication, and commitment from the entire academic community. At this age, we are not only celebrating what we have achieved, but also reflecting on the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead,” said the Dean.
This year’s anniversary theme, “Philosophy and Religion in a Technologized World,” invites the academic community to reflect on how rapid technological advancements have impacted various aspects of human life, including philosophical and religious views.
The Dean emphasized that technology, which has now become an integral part of human life, raises various ethical dilemmas that require guidance from philosophy and religion. In the midst of technological development, it is crucial to update and deepen our understanding of the world and our place in it.
“Philosophy and religion, which have long been the foundation for human reflection on the meaning of life, values, and existence, are now confronted with new questions arising from technological advancements,” she added.
The highlight of the anniversary event featured an academic speech by Dr. Heri Santoso, titled “The Philosophy of Science at UGM and Its Relevance in Facing a Technologized World.”
Dr. Santoso discussed how UGM has developed a distinctive philosophy of the university and science, which can serve as a philosophical foundation for the development of knowledge in Indonesia and globally. This philosophy is based on the intrinsic values of science, Pancasila, and Indonesian culture.
“The concept of the philosophy of science developed by UGM scholars now finds the right context and momentum to address the various scientific challenges in an increasingly technologized world,” he explained.
The event also served as an occasion to honor faculty members and educational staff who have retired, including Dra. Jirzanah, M.Hum., Dr. Misnal Munir, Sudarmana, Sarjimin, and the late Gunawan Djoko Santoso.
The Dean of the Faculty of Philosophy also presented awards to the winners of the 2024 Philosophy Essay Competition (PEC), with Amelia Gantari (Islamic High School PB. Soedirman, Bekasi) securing first place, Muhammad Farhan Shadiq (Pradita Dirgantara High School, Boyolali) in second place, and Adisty Kiandra Dahayu (Islamic High School PB. Soedirman, Bekasi) in third place.