The Association of Regional Language and Literature Students throughout Indonesia, commonly known as IMBASADI, is a specialized organization for students pursuing higher education in regional language and literature departments or programs at universities across Indonesia. This national student organization was established on February 15, 1993, at Hasanuddin University in Makassar and is now entering its 29th year.
IMBASADI has the following objectives:
- To develop creative potential in academic, social, and cultural aspects.
- To pioneer the development of science and technology for the future of the nation.
- To live and practice Pancasila in personal life, community, nation, and state.
- To preserve regional cultures as national assets.
- To unite regional language and literature students from all over Indonesia to collaborate in accommodating and channeling aspirations.
Through these objectives, it is hoped that IMBASADI can foster strong camaraderie among students in regional language and literature departments or programs. In terms of organizational structure, IMBASADI is divided into several Regional Divisions, including Sumatra, Java, Bali, Nusa Tenggara, and Sulawesi.
Every year, IMBASADI conducts regular activities, which include the “Sarasehan Nusantara” (Archipelago Symposium) and the “Temu Budaya Nusantara” (Archipelago Cultural Gathering).
These two activities are interconnected and serve distinct purposes:
A. Sarasehan Nusantara IMBASADI:
Sarasehan Nusantara IMBASADI is typically held around May or June. The focus of this event is to determine the host university for the next Sarasehan Nusantara, where sharing sessions on the progress of each division’s work programs, the Nusantara Cultural Showcase, the National Scientific Writing Competition, and the selection of Imbasadi Ambassadors also take place. Some activities may vary depending on the organizing committee of the Sarasehan Nusantara.
B. Temu Budaya Nusantara IMBASADI:
Temu Budaya Nusantara IMBASADI is held around November or December. The main focus of this event is the National Congress, resignation, and reorganization of Imbasadi executives. Similar to Sarasehan Nusantara Imbasadi, supporting activities include the Nusantara Cultural Showcase and the National Scientific Writing Competition. Other activities depend on the organizing committee of the Temu Budaya Nusantara.
IMBASADI’s activities provide an opportunity for students in regional language and literature programs, including those in UGM’s Javanese Literature program, to participate in competitions. Joining IMBASADI events enhances students’ knowledge of Indonesia’s multiculturalism and allows direct interaction with students from different regions. This interaction has becomes a means for exchanging languages and cultures among one another.
Participating in IMBASADI activities offers Javanese Literature students at UGM a chance for personal development. Direct interaction with students from diverse backgrounds and cultures broadens their knowledge and insight. Therefore, involvement in IMBASADI brings numerous benefits to students, including unique experiences gained through participation in its various activities.
Source: https://imbasadi.wordpress.com/
Author: Vighna Hernawan