UNDIP, Semarang (15/8) — Around 16,000 new students of Universitas Diponegoro (UNDIP) participated in the highlight of the 2026 Orientasi Diponegoro Muda (ODM) on Saturday, August 15, 2026, at the UNDIP Stadium in Tembalang. Carrying the theme “Design Your Path, Define Your Future,” ODM 2026 provided an initial platform for the Young Diponegoro students to get to know themselves, explore their potential, and begin determining the direction of their journey throughout their studies at UNDIP.
The ODM 2026 series opened with a mosaic performance involving 3,600 new students. Through a series of formations representing the process of self-discovery, embracing the journey, and making knowledge, experience, and values a foundation for growth, the mosaic conveyed the main message of ODM 2026: every choice helps determine the direction in which the future is shaped.
The spirit of charting one’s own path was also reflected in the ‘Pathaswara’ dance, a performance combining traditional dance and martial arts to portray different goals and approaches to building the future.
Chairman of ODM UNDIP 2026, Jovan Manuel Chevaz, said that the theme “Design Your Path, Define Your Future” was inspired by the belief that every student has a different path. Students can grow through various avenues, including research, organizations, competitions, community service, entrepreneurship and creative work and innovation.
“Whatever path you choose in the future, it will all begin with the courage to determine your direction starting today. Universitas Diponegoro offers so many spaces and opportunities for students to grow. Therefore, as Young Diponegoro students, let us make the most of every opportunity available,” he said.
A similar message was delivered by Chairman of the UNDIP Student Executive Board (BEM UNDIP) 2026, Nur Maajid Taufiqurrahman. He encouraged the Young Diponegoro students to have the courage to embrace the process and their journey as university students as part of continuing the spirit of struggle embodied by Prince Diponegoro.
Meanwhile, UNDIP Rector Prof. Dr. Suharnomo, S.E., M.Si., encouraged the Young Diponegoro students to uphold the values of Prince Diponegoro, develop their potential, and maintain a strong sense of concern for society. The Rector also emphasized the importance of continuously striving to become the best version of themselves.
“UNDIP will continue to support all of your educational journeys as best as we can, and hopefully UNDIP can bring out the best version of all of you. Hopefully, the best version of yourselves will continue to grow together with Universitas Diponegoro,” he said.
The Rector also advised the new students to use social media wisely and make it a platform for sharing kindness, optimism, and meaningful work.
The ODM 2026 series also introduced the diversity of UNDIP’s student ecosystem through a Parade featuring high-achieving students, student activity units (UKM), regional student organizations, and various other elements of student life. These various spaces served as an introduction to UNDIP’s ‘Complete Graduate’ profile, comprising communicator, professional, leader, entrepreneur, thinker, and educator. The profile encourages Young Diponegoro students to develop into adaptable, integrity-driven individuals who are ready to make meaningful contributions.
The message of having the courage to determine one’s own direction was further explored through a ‘Dipscussion’ session titled “The Path Is Yours: Knowing Yourself, Making Choices, Creating the Future” with Xaviera Putri, a content creator and writer who pursued a double major at KAIST, South Korea, and became known through the Academic Clash of Champions competition. During the session, Xaviera encouraged the new students to establish their priorities and use the early years of university as an opportunity for exploration.
“Don’t be afraid to explore as much as possible. In my opinion, the first and second years are the perfect time to meet many people, discover what your interests are, join organizations, participate in competitions, and find what makes you feel like yourself,” Xaviera said. She also reminded students not to spend their time comparing themselves with others. “Don’t spend your time reflecting on other people’s lives. Instead, use that time to design your own path in life,” she added.
In line with this spirit of exploration, ODM 2026 featured the PKM Expo under the theme “PKM Pathways.” Through Path of Research, Path of Creativity, Path of Future Vision, Path of Community Impact, and Path of High Tech, new students were introduced to various avenues for personal development through booths and educational games.
The message about having the courage to determine one’s direction was also conveyed through ‘Mahakarya’, a musical drama entitled ‘Arah atau Arus’ (Direction or Current). The performance encouraged Young Diponegoro students to choose their own direction based on their goals and values rather than simply following the current. To close the event, ODM 2026 featured a performance by Yovie & Nuno. Through its diverse range of activities, ODM 2026 not only welcomed new students into the UNDIP family but also introduced the many opportunities available to Young Diponegoro students to explore, grow, and chart their paths toward the future. (Public Communication/UNDIP/Hng)
