UNDIP, Semarang (Monday, 11/11) – To commemorate National Heroes’ Day 2024, Universitas Diponegoro held a flag-raising ceremony titled “Emulate Your Heroes, Love Your Country” at the Widya Puraya Field, UNDIP Tembalang Campus.
The ceremony proceeded solemnly, orderly, and smoothly, attended by lecturers, staff, and students who participated in the entire sequence of the event to honor and remember the services of the heroes who fought for Indonesia’s independence.
On this occasion, the Rector of Universitas Diponegoro, Prof. Dr. Suharnomo, S.E., M.Si., acted as the ceremony inspector and read a written speech from the Minister of Social Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia, Saifullah Yusuf. In the speech, the Minister emphasized that the theme of Heroes’ Day 2024, “Emulate Your Heroes, Love Your Country,” embodies a strong national spirit, a call for unity, preservation of national identity, and reinforcement of patriotism. This phrase also inspires individuals to act heroically by positively and actively contributing to society.
In the excerpt from the Minister of Social Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia’s speech, Prof. Suharnomo reminded us that the Indonesian nation’s struggle continues, even though the heroes of the past have completed their duties. The current development of the country requires new heroes who can enlighten and innovate for the advancement of Indonesia. Every citizen plays an essential role in upholding the heroic spirit and practicing social values in everyday life.
At the end of the speech, it was advised to do the best by emulating and inheriting heroic values. “Let us implement heroic qualities and social solidarity in society, starting with ourselves, from the smallest actions around us for the common good,” said the UNDIP Rector.
After reading the Minister’s speech, Prof. Suharnomo announced that UNDIP had received an award from Macau University of Science and Technology (November 7, 2024) for the Best Performance Improvement category. This award signifies UNDIP’s outstanding progress over the past five years, from ranking #241 in 2021 to #134 in the QS World University Rankings: Asia 2025.
“We are the only institution invited to represent Indonesia, alongside prestigious universities worldwide, such as NTU and NUS from Singapore. This is something to be proud of and continued, a result of five years of hard work to be extended into the next five years,” said the UNDIP Rector.
Additionally, Prof. Suharnomo emphasized that UNDIP’s dedication and contribution have laid a strong foundation as the largest university in Jawa Tengah, which should play the most significant role for the community of Jawa Tengah.
“We heard messages from heroes, and they align with what UNDIP has been doing. Last month, we showcased the best works of UNDIP experts by sharing videos of innovations and contributions in research and technology, such as Prof. Nyoman’s desalination work, Prof. Nur’s plasma D’Ozone technology, Dr. Rifki’s bionic hand product, among others. This had an extraordinary impact, receiving special coverage from Kompas and international TV,” explained Prof. Suharnomo.
Prof. Suharnomo also mentioned hopes for showcasing other works in the next period, such as waste processing technology that produces energy by Prof. Didik from the Chemical Engineering Department. “There are many things I believe we can showcase to demonstrate that UNDIP is sensitive to providing solutions to societal problems. I believe experts in social fields are equally important, possibly from History, Social Science, Economics, and others,” he continued.
“We all hope to give the best for society, in line with the wishes of the Minister, Deputy Minister, and the heroic messages from national figures (Pangeran Diponegoro; Ki Hajar Dewantara; Cut Nyak Dien; Prof. Moh. Yamin, S.H.; Pattimura; Supriyadi; Ir. Soekarno H. Umar Said Cokroaminoto; Martha Christina Tiahahu; Raden Dewi Sartika; Ernest Douwes Dekker or Danudirja Setiabudi). Hopefully, this also further inspires us all that UNDIP will continue to pursue international accreditation, reputation, and recognition while ensuring we benefit society,” said the UNDIP Rector.
“UNDIP with Dignity means dignity in values, attitudes, and behavior. As for UNDIP Beneficial, we should be beneficial through our work and service,” concluded Prof. Suharnomo. (DHW)
