UNDIP, Semarang – The enthusiasm of 2,500 runners participating in the “UNDIP Run 2024” for the 5K and 10K categories added to the excitement of Universitas Diponegoro’s 67th Anniversary Celebration. This pilot running event, organized by the Universitas Diponegoro Alumni Association (IKA UNDIP), took place on the UNDIP Tembalang campus on Sunday, October 13.
UNDIP Run 2024, initiated by UNDIP alumni in collaboration with the university (faculty and staff), embraced the theme “Unity in Diversity,” which means bridging differences, reflecting the spirit of togetherness rooted in solidarity. This theme highlights IKA UNDIP’s commitment to actively promote and support Indonesia’s diversity while benefiting people from all backgrounds.
At a press conference, Prof. Dr. Suharnomo, S.E., M.Si., Rector of Diponegoro University, expressed his appreciation and gratitude to the IKA UNDIP Chairman and the leadership team for hosting UNDIP RUN 2024, which has become one of the most popular events in UNDIP’s anniversary celebrations, attracting attention from across Indonesia.
“This is the first running event with 5K and 10K categories, drawing thousands of participants, including students, staff, the public, and alumni. Seeing the amazing enthusiasm, we hope to double or even exceed this number next year. Currently, we limited participation to 2,500 runners, which sold out in September,” said the UNDIP Rector.
IKA UNDIP’s Chairman, Abdul Kadir Karding, S.Pi., M.Si., shared that UNDIP RUN 2024 was a collaborative effort between UNDIP alumni and the university to celebrate UNDIP’s 67th anniversary. “This is the first time we’re holding such an event, and we hope it continues and improves each year. UNDIP’s unique track, with its hills and valleys within the campus, encourages students to be more motivated and adopt a healthier lifestyle through running,” Abdul Kadir explained.
This anniversary celebration underscores IKA UNDIP’s vital role in supporting UNDIP’s tagline “UNDIP Bermartabat, UNDIP Bermanfaat” (Dignified and Beneficial UNDIP). “The partnership between alumni and the university continues to strengthen, with alumni playing an active role in supporting community development programs that benefit society through various positive activities,” he added.
UNDIP Run 2024 offered a total prize pool of IDR 134 million, divided between the two main categories: the 10K and 5K races. The route started at the Widya Puraya field complex, passing through various faculties and landmarks on UNDIP’s Tembalang campus. For the 10K Race, participants completed the course in a maximum of 135 minutes, while the 5K Race had a 90-minute limit. (DHW – Public Relations)
