Yogyakarta (January 3, 2022) - For a student, achieving remarkable accomplishments is undoubtedly a dream to be realized, especially on a national or even international scale. However, opportunities to achieve such feats may seem challenging at times, be it due to competition or other circumstances.
This is where the story of Taruna Dharma Jati, a student from the Javanese Literature Program at Universitas Gadjah Mada, brings both surprising and joyful news. In 2021, Taruna, along with his team, mentored by Zakariya Pamuji Aminullah, had the opportunity to participate in the Student Creativity Week (Pekan Kreativitas Mahasiswa - PKM) organized by DIKTI. (Direktorat Jenderal Pendidikan Tinggi, Riset, dan Teknologi).
His journey began with a fascination for the world of PKM. The initial spark was ignited when he witnessed the success of his senior, Syahmu Hidayat, a 2017 Javanese Literature student who won gold in Pimnas, with the theme raised according to the knowledge explored in the Javanese Literature study program. This catalyzed for him to delve deeper into the realm of PKM. As he delved into PKM, based on existing phenomena, Taruna understood that PKM provided a platform for various fields of study, including Javanese Literature.
The interest in participating in PKM did not arise solely from observing phenomena. It was the opportunity provided to him by a Javanese Literature lecturer, Zakariya Pamuji Aminullah, often addressed as Mas Zaki, that enabled him to further progress. Moreover, this opportunity led him to become the leader of the team. Achieving an accolade required a long process, involving preparation, revisions, funding, research, and various other stages that eventually led them to their final destination.
According to him, PKM is a forum and event for students to channel their highly innovative ideas in any matter, which hopefully can be useful for the wider community.
In the PKM that he and his team participated in, Taruna focused on the theme of epidemics from the perspective of Javanese literary works. For their research, they collected data from the Surakarta and Yogyakarta regions. They analyzed everything from literary and cultural perspectives to political science and law. Their hard work, dedication, and meticulous execution led them, under his leadership, to win the gold medal in the 34th Pimnas in 2021 in the poster category. He firmly believed that their efforts would not betray the results they achieved.
According to Taruna, the greatest challenge in the process was working with a diverse team due to different backgrounds. Additionally, the chosen subject matter was relatively weighty, requiring the data collected to be condensed and organized meticulously following the established writing guidelines. Precise time management was also crucial in composing the proposal.
Despite facing numerous challenges, he and his team overcame them. Their approach to overcoming challenges was through responsive communication, convincing each other that PKM was a shared responsibility. In terms of condensing the material, they managed it by processing words and putting in extra thought.
Not only do they get tired, but they also gain valuable experience, both academically and non-academically. They acquired new knowledge, especially in their research field, and learned from the teachings of relevant resource persons.
For new students eager to participate in PKM, he advises them not to hesitate, as PKM provides an excellent platform to channel their best "crazy" ideas and elevate the reputation of Javanese Literature.
"Do not be afraid to start, do not feel inferior, because Javanese Literature students actually have a lot of potential that must be developed and optimized, one of which is through this PKM activity" (Taruna, 2022).
