An atmosphere of emotion, pride, and enthusiasm filled the Convention Hall of UIN Sunan Kalijaga on Friday, September 11, 2026. Several students from the English Literature Study Program at UIN Sunan Kalijaga, who participated in the Access Indonesia Scholarship Program, attended the graduation ceremony marking the completion of the two-year program (2024-2026). The occasion marked the end of a meaningful journey of dedication while opening a new chapter for the scholarship recipients as they confidently move forward toward a bright future.

The prestigious event opened with a warm and inspiring speech delivered by the Vice Rector III of UIN Sunan Kalijaga, Prof. Dr. Abdur Rozaki, S.Ag., M.Si. In his remarks, he expressed his appreciation for the participants’ dedication throughout the scholarship program and emphasized the important role of globally minded young people in bringing about positive change in society.

The event continued with remarks from Mr. Dwiki Prasetio, Program Coordinator at the Indonesian International Education Foundation (IIEF). As a strategic partner of UIN Sunan Kalijaga in developing and implementing the Access Indonesia Scholarship Program, IIEF expressed its pride in the students’ remarkable growth, academic maturity, and achievements throughout the past two years.

The memorable occasion was attended not only by parents who watched their children with pride and emotion, but also by Heads of Study Programs representing various partner universities, who were present to show their support.

Following the formal session, the atmosphere became warm and festive through a series of artistic performances and an exhibition of student work prepared as a reflection of their learning journey and a celebration of their achievements. The activities included a Gallery Walk featuring posters and banner designs created by Access Indonesia participants, portraying their learning experiences, senses of togetherness, and personal transformation over the two years; an engaging storytelling performance and a boy band performance by Access students that entertained the guests; and a Special Sing-Along Performance, in which all Access students gathered to sing "Night Changes" by One Direction together, symbolyzing the changes and growth they had experienced throughout their journey.

The event concluded with an inspiring and heartfelt closing message from the Head of the Center for Language Development (P2B) at UIN Sunan Kalijaga, Mr. Fuad Arif Fudiyartanto, S.Pd., M.Hum., M.Ed., Ph.D. He encouraged the students to carry forward their commitment to learning, leadership, and positive values wherever their future paths may take them. His message resonated with the participants’ experiences in the Access Indonesia program, which has encouraged them to speak with confidence, think critically, and express their creativity without limits. (MF)