UNDIP, Semarang (August 17, 2025) – The spirit of red and white filled Widya Puraya Field at Universitas Diponegoro on Sunday morning. Members of the UNDIP academic community gathered for a solemn yet vibrant flag-raising ceremony to mark the 80th anniversary of Indonesia’s independence, held under the theme “United, Sovereign, Prosperous People, Advanced Indonesia.”
UNDIP Rector Prof. Dr. Suharnomo, S.E., M.Si., served as the ceremony leader and read the text of the Proclamation. In his remarks, he expressed deep appreciation and gratitude to all participants, including guests who attended with great enthusiasm in a patriotic atmosphere.
“Celebrating independence is a blessing we must be grateful for. At UNDIP, this spirit is reflected in the enthusiasm of the entire academic community, proud to be part of the Indonesian nation,” he said.
The Rector highlighted UNDIP’s achievements, including the development of modern facilities such as new high-rise buildings, jogging tracks, and laboratories, as well as international academic recognition. Recently, UNDIP received the Emerald Usage Award and was ranked among the world’s top five Emerald journal users, alongside leading universities in the United States and Australia. “This shows UNDIP’s strong commitment to academic and scientific advancement,” he said.
Prof. Suharnomo also announced that UNDIP has been entrusted to host major national events, including POMNAS 2025, Pilmapres, and the Green Metric Award at Muladi Dome. Academically, UNDIP ranks among the top 5 nationally in the Student Creativity Program (PKM) and continues to strive for achievements at the National Student Scientific Week (PIMNAS). “This trust reflects national recognition of UNDIP’s credibility as a leading and reliable university,” he noted.
UNDIP’s contributions to environmental and renewable energy issues are also increasingly evident, from the 1,000 infiltration wells program with the Jawa Tengah provincial government to the seawater desalination machine developed by Prof. Nyoman, which has earned international recognition. UNDIP’s clean water innovation has even been considered a global model, following direct discussions with Retno Lestari Priansari Marsudi, S.H., LL.M., former Indonesian foreign minister and now UN special envoy on water access.
“We truly encourage everyone to continue participating in development, making UNDIP a university of dignity and benefit. May all our efforts receive the blessing of Almighty God,” Prof. Suharnomo said.
This year’s commemoration also featured the awarding of the Satyalancana Karya Satya medal to 139 lecturers and staff who have served for 30, 20, and 10 years. The honor recognized their dedication and loyalty to higher education in service to the nation.
The independence festivals continued with competitions among UNDIP work units. Creativity flourished in fashion contests for men, women, and the Dharma Wanita Persatuan (DWP) of UNDIP, as well as spirited independence chants. Performances ranged from costumes inspired by the independence struggle to lively cheers, reflecting a sense of collaboration and togetherness.
Beyond entertainment, the competitions symbolized that the spirit of independence can be expressed through creativity and unity, not just formal ceremonies.
The celebrations concluded with performances by the Diponegoro Orchestra and the Student Choir, presenting “Hari Merdeka.” The music enhanced the solemnity and gratitude of all attendees for 80 years of Indonesia’s independence.
Through this Independence Day commemoration, UNDIP reaffirmed its commitment to fostering nationalism, instilling civic values, and strengthening the role of higher education in building a progressive, sovereign, dignified, and beneficial Indonesia. (Public Communication/ UNDIP/ DHW)
