Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta (UNY) held a ceremony commemorating the 81st Anniversary of the Republic of Indonesia at the UNY Rectorate courtyard on Monday, August 17, 2026. Held in a dignified atmosphere enriched with local cultural values, the ceremony became a moment for the UNY academic community to strengthen the spirit of nationalism while reflecting on the role of higher education in advancing Indonesia.
Presiding over the ceremony, UNY Rector Prof. Dr. Sumaryanto, M.Kes., AIFO., delivered the official address of the Indonesian Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology, Prof. Brian Yuliarto, Ph.D. The address emphasized the important role of higher education institutions in driving national progress through education, research, innovation, and technology.
A strong sense of local cultural identity was reflected throughout the ceremony. UNY lecturers and education staff wore Javanese traditional attire, symbolizing appreciation for culture as part of the nation’s identity. The raising of the Red and White flag was carried out by students from senior high schools, Islamic senior high schools, and vocational high schools in collaboration with the UNY Scout Student Activity Unit, which served as the Paskibraka trainer. The flag bearer was Devika Ayu Bening Ragitsaputri from SMAN 3 Yogyakarta.
The solemn atmosphere was further strengthened by the performance of the national anthem Indonesia Raya by Marching Band Citra Derap Bahana and the Swara Wadhana UNY Choir, with security support from the UNY Student Regiment.
In his address, the Minister reminded the audience that the independence won through the sacrifices of the nation’s heroes must be continued through concrete efforts to bring welfare and a better future to society. According to the Minister, higher education institutions must not merely be spectators, but must take an active role through clear thinking, constructive criticism, and research and technology that respond to real community needs.
One of the key messages conveyed was the need to transform university research so that it provides tangible benefits. Research outputs are encouraged not to stop at reports or scientific publications, but to be further developed into prototypes, patents, products, and solutions that can be used by the public. Universities are also expected to become spaces where technology-based start-ups and new industries can grow, creating quality employment opportunities.
The message also encouraged students to be brave in conducting research, trying new things, creating innovations, and using knowledge to bring wider benefits. “Do not be afraid to try. Do not be afraid to conduct research, create, and build something new,” the Minister said.
For UNY’s new students, the ceremony also offered a memorable experience. Maya, Ristukartika Sari, and Janata, new students of the 2026 cohort of the Makeup and Beauty Study Program at UNY’s Wates Vocational Campus, took part in a flag ceremony at the higher education level for the first time. As students from outside the region living at the UNY Wates Dormitory, they had to prepare early in the morning and travel by motorcycle.
Maya said she was proud to take part in the ceremony because it strengthened her sense of nationalism and love for the country. Meanwhile, Ristukartika saw the activity as an opportunity to build togetherness and get to know new friends.
The performances by several UNY Student Activity Units also drew the attention of new students. Janata said she was especially impressed by the performance of the Swara Wadhana UNY Choir and was interested in joining the group.
The series of events for UNY’s commemoration of Indonesia’s 81st Independence Day concluded with a joint prayer and performances of patriotic songs. Through this moment, UNY reaffirmed its national spirit and commitment to continuing to make concrete contributions through the three pillars of higher education in support of an advanced, independent, sovereign, and prosperous Indonesia.
