The Faculty of Philosophy at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) held a student orientation event titled Pionir Dialektika from July 31 to August 1, 2024, to welcome 167 new students—the largest number of new enrollments in the faculty’s history.
“So many students wish to join the Faculty of Philosophy, and you are the ones chosen to be here. Over the next two days, we hope you will get to know the Faculty of Philosophy better and feel at home in your new environment,” said Dr. Rr. Siti Murtiningsih, S.S., M.Hum., Dean of the Faculty of Philosophy.
This year’s Pionir Dialektika carried the theme of Social Philosophy with the tagline “Embrace Society: Ignite The Equality.” Throughout the orientation, new students were introduced to various aspects of academic life at the Faculty of Philosophy. The event began with a campus tour, offering students an opportunity to become more familiar with their new surroundings.
Pionir Dialektika also featured an exhibition by the Student Activity Bureau (BKM), showcasing the rich and diverse non-academic activities available for students to join. Additionally, new students received in-depth academic orientation, including an introduction to the curriculum, academic procedures, and tips for successful studying at the Faculty of Philosophy.
Students were also introduced to the faculty’s professors and academic staff, who will guide them throughout their studies. This introduction was designed to foster close relationships between the students and the academic community, creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment.
The 2024 Pionir Dialektika is expected to be a starting point for new students to develop key skills such as communication, problem-solving, critical thinking, and teamwork.
“Pionir Dialektika is not an orientation event that uses force. Its primary focus is to help new students adapt to campus life with support from their co-facilitators,” explained Fitri Alfariz, S.Fil., M.Phil., Coordinator of the Pionir Dialektika Group.
On the second day, the Pionir Dialektika 2024 Debate was held, an important session aimed at honing the rhetorical skills of young philosophers and encouraging them to build confidence in presenting arguments.
Additionally, an Inspiring Talk session was held, featuring motivational speakers. In this session, new students were encouraged to explore their potential, think critically, and dream big as the next generation of philosophers who can make meaningful contributions to society.