JIMBARAN – Udayana University (Unud) held a ceremony commemorating the 81st Anniversary of the Independence of the Republic of Indonesia on Monday, August 17, 2026. Taking place at the Udayana University Rectorate grounds, the event was both solemn and spirited, serving as a moment to strengthen national spirit and reaffirm the academic community’s commitment to upholding independence through education, research, innovation, and tangible contributions.
The Rector of Udayana University, Prof. Ir. I Ketut Sudarsana, S.T., Ph.D., served as the ceremo
ny inspector. During the event, the Inspector read the official address from the Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology of the Republic of Indonesia, Brian Yuliarto. The address specifically emphasized the strategic role of higher education institutions in continuing the struggle for independence through human resource development, mastery of science and technology, and the creation of innovations that benefit society.
The address conveyed that the independence—won through the courage, sacrifice, unity, blood, and tears of national heroes—must be carried forward through concrete action. Higher education institutions must not merely be spectators; they must play a vital part in the grand endeavor to build a sovereign, advanced, just, and prosperous Indonesia.
Universities are also encouraged to become hubs for research, technology, and innovation. Research should not stop at reports or publications but should evolve into prototypes, patents, products, and solutions utilized by the public. This effort is also part of creating technology-based startups, new industries, and quality employment opportunities for Indonesia’s younger generation.
The spirit of collaboration was another key message highlighted in the address. Higher education institutions need to strengthen collaboration with the government, industry, state-owned enterprises (BUMN), local governments, research institutions, and the community. Unity in diversity serves as a strength to collectively drive Indonesia’s progress.
The commemoration of the 81st Anniversary of the Republic of Indonesia at Udayana University also featured the presentation of the *Satyalancana Karya Satya* honorary award to 87 Udayana University employees, recognizing their service and dedication in carrying out their duties as members of the academic community.
According to the award recipient data, 11 individuals received the *Satyalancana Karya Satya* for 30 years of service, 10 received it for 20 years, and 66 received it for 10 years. These awards serve as both an appreciation of the recipients’ service and a reminder that dedication and integrity are vital components in building a higher education institution.
In addition to the ceremony and the presentation of the *Satyalancana Karya Satya*, the festive spirit of the independence commemoration at Udayana University was further highlighted by a parade featuring an 81-meter-long Red and White flag (*Merah Putih*) in the Rectorate area. The parade symbolized the togetherness and unity of the Udayana University academic community in commemorating the 81st Anniversary of the Republic of Indonesia’s independence.
This activity reflects Udayana University’s commitment to continuously instilling values of nationalism within the campus environment. The Red and White flag stands not only as a symbol of independence but also as a reminder of the entire academic community’s responsibility to contribute to the nation through knowledge, education, research, innovation, and community service.
Celebrating the 81st Anniversary of the Republic of Indonesia: Udayana University Holds Flag-Raising Ceremony and Echoing the message from the Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology, independence must be upheld through hard work and tangible achievements. Every classroom is expected to be a place where the future is prepared, every laboratory a place where self-reliance is built, and every campus a center of endeavor for Indonesia’s progress. In commemorating the 81st anniversary of the Republic of Indonesia’s independence, Udayana University reaffirms its commitment to moving forward together, strengthening collaboration, fostering exceptional talent, advancing research and innovation, and delivering tangible impact for society and the nation.