Watermelon is not only refreshing to eat but can also serve as a medium for creative expression. This was evident in the watermelon carving and creative food presentation competition held during the Family Gathering, part of the main celebration of the 43rd Anniversary of the Graduate School of Universitas Gadjah Mada (SPs UGM). The competition took place on Saturday, October 17th 2026, in the western parking area of SPs UGM.
The competition was attended by teams of students and educational staff from eight programs within SPs UGM, as well as one team from the UGM Campus Operations Unit (SKK). Each team showcased its own concepts and styles, filling the competition area with a diverse array of unique and captivating creations.
Participants at the allotted time, transformed watermelons into various creative works, ranging from carvings and fruit arrangements to artistic presentations shaped like specific characters and forms. Teamwork, creativity, and fruit-handling skills were key factors in the competition. The atmosphere grew even livelier as participants cheered enthusiastically to support their respective teams.
The chair of the Family Gathering organizing committee, Yusuf Amri, M.Sc., explained that the various competitions held as part of the event were designed to strengthen a sense of togetherness among the entire academic community. “Through competitions like this, we hope to foster warm interactions of students and educational staff across different study programs,” he said.
The watermelon carving and creative food presentation competition became one of the highlights of the Family Gathering. Beyond providing entertainment, the activity also offered students and educational staff an opportunity to show their creativity, build teamwork, and strengthen personal connections outside their usual academic routines.
The winners received their prizes during the closing session, alongside the winners of other competitions. First place was awarded to the Tourism Studies Master Program, followed by the Peace and Conflict Resolution Master Program (Study Interest) in second place. Third place went to the SKK team.
Author: Siti Muyasaroh