International students from Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta (UNY) added vibrant energy to the “Dewi Sri” Kampung Emas Festival in Plumbungan, Putat Village, Patuk District, Gunungkidul on Sunday, March 9, 2014. As part of the university’s 50th anniversary celebrations organized by the UNY Alumni Association (IKA UNY), students from over 30 countries performed the poco-poco dance alongside tutors and staff from the Office of International Affairs and Partnerships (KUIK UNY).
The students’ enthusiastic yet playful performance was followed by self-introductions, warmly engaging with the local audience at the village pavilion. Their presence highlighted UNY’s commitment to cross-cultural exchange and community involvement, reinforcing the university's role in supporting regional development through education and cultural diplomacy.
Festival coordinator Sardiman A.M., M.Pd., shared that the “Kampung Emas” initiative aims to inspire the Plumbungan community to become independent, progressive, and prosperous. UNY’s involvement, including contributions from students of the Faculty of Engineering and the Faculty of Languages and Arts, reflects its dedication to empowering local tourism through creativity, education, and collaboration.(byline)
