Visit of Osaka University Students for the “Short Course in Indonesian Language”

Yogyakarta - September 2022 marked a significant month, especially for many Javanese Literature students. During this period, the "Short Course in Indonesian Language Through Javanese Cultural Exotism" was conducted. This event was a result of collaboration between the Javanese Literature Study Program at Gadjah Mada University and the Indonesian Language Department at Osaka University. The implementation of this course was not the first; a similar event took place in 2019.

The "Short Course in Indonesian Language" spanned nine days, from September 17th to 25th, 2022. It involved 27 students from Osaka University, accompanied by one lecturer and one assistant lecturer. Additionally, 27 Javanese Literature students played the role of mentors to the Osaka University students throughout the course. The course was designed as an immersive learning experience that incorporated cultural aspects, particularly those related to Java, and was conducted at historical sites in Yogyakarta and its surroundings.

The program commenced with an opening ceremony at the Faculty of Cultural Sciences on the first day. Subsequently, practical learning activities began with a batik-making session at Pura Pakualaman. This session introduced Osaka University students to the process of batik-making in a hands-on manner. The day continued with a visit to Malioboro, where the students were introduced to various aspects of this famous street, including horse-drawn carriages and "Andong" (traditional carts) that operate along Malioboro.

On the second day, the learning activities took place at Borobudur Temple and Prambanan Temple. All Osaka University students participating in the course were acquainted with the historical legacies of the Javanese kingdoms in the Yogyakarta region and the island of Java as a whole.

The third day featured a visit to the Imogiri Royal Tombs. Participants were introduced to the history and significance of the royals buried at Imogiri. The day concluded with a visit to Ngrawe Beach and Bukit Bintang, where students were given the opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the area.

On the fourth day, activities were held at the Faculty of Cultural Sciences. These included a cultural lecture by Arlo Griffiths from EFEO. Subsequently, students from Osaka University conducted interviews with Javanese Literature students, discussing the activities they had participated in and addressing questions prepared by the Osaka students for their final reports. There was also a session on "karawitan" (traditional Javanese music) held in Margono 405.

The fifth day's journey included a visit to the Yogyakarta Palace (Keraton Yogyakarta). Following this, Osaka students enjoyed lunch at Bale Raos. The day continued with a trip to Tamansari, where they marveled at the preserved remains of royal bathing facilities.

On the sixth day, the Osaka students collectively visited the Diorama of the Regional Library and Archives Office (DPAD) of Yogyakarta. Here, they learned about Indonesia's struggle for independence from colonial rule. They then proceeded to the State Islamic University of Sunan Kalijaga to make presentations and visited an Islamic boarding school to gain insights into religious life in Indonesia.

The seventh day's agenda involved touring the Gadjah Mada University (UGM) campus. Osaka students were introduced to the campus buildings and areas using UGM's electric vehicles. The activities also included interviews with tutors and group study sessions.

The final day marked the closing ceremony. Each Osaka student and their UGM counterparts delivered performances involving singing and dancing. In the evening, the Osaka students visited the Prambanan Temple and witnessed the Ramayana Ballet Prambanan performance.

In conclusion, this series of events and activities constituted the "Short Course in Indonesian Language Through Javanese Cultural Exotism" at Universitas Gadjah Mada and its surroundings. It is hoped that through this program, the Javanese Literature Study Program at Universitas Gadjah Mada and the Indonesian Language Study Program at Osaka University will strengthen their relationship and collaborate again in the future.