Yogyakarta, 27 April 2026 — The graduation ceremony at the Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Gadjah Mada, was marked by a reflective and inspiring speech from the doctoral graduate representative, Agung Giri Samudra. In his address, he emphasized that graduation is not merely an endpoint, but the beginning of a new journey filled with uncertainty and opportunity.
Agung Giri Samudra opened his speech by expressing gratitude for the trust placed in him to represent fellow graduates. He highlighted that reaching this milestone was not always easy, acknowledging that many students had faced moments of doubt, felt left behind, or even came close to giving up. However, he underscored that what ultimately brought them to this point was not the absence of doubt, but the perseverance to continue despite it.
He invited graduates to view this moment not as a definitive finish line, but as a starting point, one where they must move forward without a clear map. In a complex and rapidly changing world beyond campus, he stressed that graduates must rely not only on knowledge, but also on critical thinking, intellectual honesty, and the ability to embrace complexity rather than oversimplify it.
In his speech, Agung Giri Samudra affirmed that graduates of Universitas Gadjah Mada carry more than academic degrees. They embody values of integrity, honesty, and clear thinking, qualities that are essential in navigating a world saturated with information and challenges.
On this occasion, the graduates also conveyed their sincere apologies to lecturers and educational staff for any shortcomings during their academic journey, while expressing deep appreciation for the guidance, mentorship, and dedication of the academic community. Gratitude was also extended to parents and families for their unwavering support, even in moments when the graduates themselves struggled with self-belief.
Furthermore, the graduates expressed their hope that the Faculty of Pharmacy and Universitas Gadjah Mada will continue to be centers of excellence in education and research, contributing meaningfully to addressing national and global challenges. They also emphasized the importance of preserving and passing on the values instilled during their academic journey to future generations.
In line with this spirit, the achievements of the graduates reflect contributions to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education) through the strengthening of academic and intellectual capacity, SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) through the role of pharmaceutical sciences in improving public health, and SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) through the advancement of research and innovation in the pharmaceutical field relevant to societal needs.
Concluding his remarks, Agung Giri Samudra stated that graduation is not about finishing, but about being sufficiently prepared to face a world that is never truly complete. He encouraged all graduates to continue learning, growing, and upholding the good name of their alma mater wherever they go.
Writer: Kiki | Editor: Fathul | Photo: Gilang
