To celebrate its 61st anniversary, Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta (UNY) brought Javanese culture to life through a captivating Ketoprak performance titled “Satyakarta Sudarsana.” Held on May 7, 2025, at the Performance Hall of the Faculty of Language, Arts, and Culture (FBSB), the event showcased the artistic talents of UNY students. The performance was a collaborative effort between the Faculty of Language, Arts, and Culture and the Faculty of Engineering. Adding to the grandeur, the event was attended by Vice Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology, Prof. Dr. Fauzan, along with delegates from the Forum Komunikasi Komite Audit PTN-BH from across Indonesia.
During his opening speech, Prof. Fauzan expressed his admiration for UNY's commitment to preserving Indonesian culture. “UNY is not just educating future scholars; it is nurturing young cultural ambassadors who proudly carry our heritage forward,” he said. He also praised UNY students for their dedication to Javanese traditions, something that is becoming rare among the younger generation. He encouraged them to continue upholding these values, paired with strong moral character, to become future leaders who inspire others.
The performance began with a beautiful opening by Setyo Budoyo, a traditional Javanese music ensemble from the Dharma Persatuan Wanita (DWP) of the Faculty of Engineering. UNY Rector Prof. Sumaryanto welcomed the distinguished guests warmly, expressing his gratitude for the opportunity to host such a meaningful event. “It is an honor for UNY to welcome our esteemed guests while celebrating our cultural heritage through Ketoprak,” he shared. He also reaffirmed UNY's commitment to supporting both academic and cultural activities, believing that preserving tradition is just as important as advancing education.
The story of Satyakarta Sudarsana unfolded dramatically on stage, telling the tale of Raden Satya, the son of Adipati Suranjana of the Purwasari principality. The plot centers on Raden Satya's quest for justice after the tragic murder of his mother, Dewi Kartika—an act believed to be committed by a servant named Raras. Driven by grief and a strong sense of justice, Raden Satya embarks on a journey to uncover the truth, reflecting the timeless belief that those who sow injustice will eventually face its consequences.
Through the Satyakarta Sudarsana performance, UNY not only celebrated its anniversary but also showcased its deep appreciation for cultural heritage. The event reminded everyone in attendance of the importance of preserving tradition and passing it on to the next generation. For UNY students, it was more than just a performance—it was a way to connect with their roots and carry forward the spirit of Javanese culture with pride.
