Yogyakarta – The Graduate School of Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) held a Syawalan (Eid Gathering) for its academic community in celebration of Eid al-Fitr 1447 Hijri on Tuesday, April 7th 2026, at the 5th Floor Auditorium of the UGM Graduate School. The event was attended by leaders, faculty members, administrative staff, students, and the entire academic community of the Graduate School.
Syawalan is a long-standing tradition that serves as a platform to strengthen social bonds following the month of Ramadan. Within the academic context, the event is an occasion for mutual forgiveness and also an opportunity to reinforce togetherness and rebuild collective spirit in carrying out the university’s tridharma (education, research, and community service).
The event series began with participant registration, followed by an opening session, Qur’an recitation, and the reading of the Syawalan pledge. It symbolized mutual forgiveness and a renewed commitment to unity among the academic community.
A warm and familial atmosphere was evident throughout the event. Students from various study programs actively participated and interacted with faculty members and staff, creating an inclusive and egalitarian environment. This moment became an important opportunity to strengthen cross-role relationships within the academic setting, fostering more open and collaborative communication.
The presence of students also reflected their active engagement in campus life beyond formal academic activities. The interactions during the event provided valuable social experiences enriching the learning process and fostered a stronger sense of belonging to the institution.
The highlight of the event was a Syawalan reflection delivered by Prof. Dr. Ir. Mohammad Na’iem, M.Agr.Sc., titled “Maintaining Purity, Preserving the Environment.” The reflection emphasized the importance of balancing the spiritual values gained during Ramadan with responsibility toward the environment.
The message encouraged the academic community not to stop at ritual practices, but to translate these values into real actions in daily life. Environmental awareness was framed as part of the implementation of religious values, as well as a responsibility of academics who play a strategic role in society.
These values, in the context of higher education, can be integrated through education, research, and community service. The academic environment is expected to serve not only as a space for knowledge production but also for shaping individuals who are conscious of sustainability and the balance of life.
The Syawalan event also served as a reflective moment for the entire academic community to reaffirm their commitment to creating a harmonious working and learning environment. The sense of togetherness built during the event is expected to be the foundation to enhance collaboration, both internally and within broader networks.
The event concluded with a collective prayer, followed by a group photo session and a social gathering. The relaxed atmosphere provided an opportunity for participants to interact more closely, strengthening both personal and professional relationships.
The UGM Graduate School, through this event, reaffirmed the importance of maintaining a balance of spiritual values, social relationships, and environmental responsibility. The spirit of togetherness fostered is expected to continue in future academic activities, contributing to a productive, inclusive, and sustainable academic environment.
Author: Khoirul Mujazanah