Yogyakarta, May 27, 2025 – An atmosphere of pride and emotion filled the MMA Auditorium, 3rd Floor of Building A10, Faculty of Agriculture, UGM, on Tuesday (27/5) afternoon. The Department of Agricultural Socio-Economics (Sosek) officially held a send-off ceremony for its 14 bachelor’s degree candidates graduating in the May 2025 Graduation Period (Period III, Academic Year 2024/2025). This event served as a heartfelt tribute from the department’s lecturers and staff (tendik) to the graduates’ dedication and outstanding achievements.
The fourteen graduating candidates comprise 3 students from the Agricultural Economics and Agribusiness Study Program and 11 from the Agricultural Extension and Communication Study Program. The ceremony, commencing at 12:00 PM local time, opened with warm remarks from the Head of the Sosek Department, Dr. Jangkung Handoyo Mulyo, M.Ec. In his address, he expressed immense pride, highlighting that all graduating candidates this period achieved the highest honors (Cum Laude). Dr. Jangkung emphasized the importance for graduates to always uphold the good name of their UGM alma mater and the Sosek Department wherever they go. He also urged them to utilize the knowledge gained to bring the greatest benefit to society and the environment, becoming agents of change in agriculture and rural development.
The atmosphere grew more poignant when Faathimatuzzahrah (Ima), the graduating candidate with the highest Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.93 from the Agricultural Economics and Agribusiness Program, stepped forward to represent her cohort. Ima expressed profound gratitude for the opportunity to study within the UGM Sosek Department. She also conveyed sincere apologies for any mistakes, intentional or unintentional, made during their studies to the lecturers and staff. Concluding her speech, Ima uplifted spirits by wishing all her fellow graduates success in pursuing their aspirations and contributing to the nation.
The ceremony then reached a joyous peak with the presentation of commemorative souvenirs from the Sosek Department to each graduating candidate. A particularly warm moment ensued as the graduates respectfully shook hands with the lecturers and staff who had guided them throughout their academic journey. The send-off concluded with a group photo session involving the entire Sosek Department academic community, capturing the togetherness and happiness of this special day.
Graduation Send-off and its Link to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
This send-off for the graduates of the UGM Department of Agricultural Socio-Economics is not only a proud institutional moment but also resonates strongly with the principles of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Firstly, the event directly supports SDG 4: Quality Education, celebrating the successful completion of inclusive and equitable higher education and promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all fourteen graduates. Secondly, competent Sosek UGM graduates specializing in agricultural economics, agribusiness, extension, and communication are crucial assets for achieving SDG 2: Zero Hunger. Their knowledge and skills will directly contribute to enhancing sustainable agricultural productivity, strengthening food systems, and empowering farmers. Thirdly, the event embodies the spirit of SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, showcasing the close collaboration between students, lecturers, staff, and the institution in preparing a new generation ready to contribute to sustainable development, particularly in the agricultural and rural sectors.
The Department of Agricultural Socio-Economics UGM extends its warmest congratulations and best wishes to all fourteen graduating candidates. May the knowledge acquired serve as a valuable foundation for serving society, advancing Indonesian agriculture, and contributing to sustainable development. Congratulations on embarking on your next chapter!
Author: Adhika Hafizh Prasada, S.P.
Admin of the Website for the Department of Agricultural Socio-Economics, Faculty of Agriculture, UGM