The Faculty of Philosophy, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), held a Studium Generale for new undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral students in the 2025/2026 academic year. The event, which took place on Tuesday (19/8) in the Persatuan Meeting Room of the Faculty of Philosophy, featured Prof. Dr. Drs. Rivan Achmad Purwantono, S.H., M.H., an alumnus of the Faculty of Philosophy class of 1985, who presented on the theme “Modern Philosophy in Management.”
The program opened with remarks from the Dean of the Faculty of Philosophy, Prof. Dr. Rr. Siti Murtiningsih, S.S., M.Hum., who emphasized the importance of confidence and pride in studying at the Faculty of Philosophy, UGM. “Never doubt, never worry. You are already in the right place, in the right space at our beloved Faculty of Philosophy. With this knowledge, you will find yourselves everywhere and capable of doing anything. One example is one of our alumni who ventured into all fields, proving that the knowledge you will gain here can be applied anywhere,” she stated.
In his lecture, Prof. Rivan Achmad Purwantono underlined the significant role of philosophy in shaping modern thinking and leadership. He stressed that one of his foremost goals, both academically and professionally, has been to bring benefits to others. Philosophical approaches—through logic, philosophy of mind, critical philosophy, philosophical psychology, and epistemology—form the intellectual foundation that shapes a leader’s attitude and mindset.
He further elaborated on the relevance of philosophy in modern leadership. First, philosophy provides a strong foundation for leaders to understand duties and responsibilities while reflecting on experiences. Second, philosophy shapes principles and ways of thinking that serve as a moral compass in every decision. Third, the philosophy of leadership guides behavioral consistency in alignment with vision and values. And fourth, in the 21st century’s complex challenges, philosophy offers ethical, humanistic, and reflective perspectives that are highly relevant in management and global leadership.
This Studium Generale not only served as an inspiring introduction for new students embarking on their academic journey but also reaffirmed the enduring relevance of philosophy in addressing real-world issues of modern life, particularly in management, leadership, and nation-building.