On the occasion of the 2025 Anniversary of the Faculty of Humanities UGM, Nurkotimah, a graduate of the Archaeology Study Program, has been awarded as an Outstanding Alumni. The award highlights her significant contribution in the field of archaeology and cultural preservation, particularly in Indonesia.
Nurkotimah’s journey began when she enrolled in the Archaeology program at FIB UGM from 2010 to 2014 as a Bidik Misi scholarship recipient. Her academic performance was excellent, and she quickly became involved in various student organizations, demonstrating her commitment to cultural diversity and community engagement. As the coordinator of Public Relations in the Archaeology Student Association, she played an important role in promoting archaeology awareness among her peers.
During her college years, Nurkotimah also served as the coordinator of Culture and Arts at the UGM Hindu Dharma Student Association (KMHD). This position allowed her to explore and promote Indonesia’s rich cultural heritage, emphasizing the importance of preserving traditional arts and practices. Her leadership in these organizations built a strong foundation for future endeavors in archaeology.
After completing her bachelor’s degree, Nurkotimah continued her Master of Archaeology studies at UGM, supported by an LPDP scholarship from the Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Indonesia. From 2017 to 2019, she continued to excel academically while also taking on important roles within the LPDP community. As External Secretary of the UGM LPDP Village, she facilitates connections between students and the wider community, encouraging a spirit of collaboration and cultural exchange.
Nurkotimah’s passion for cultural diversity is seen in her creative projects. She has conceptualized and directed several performances that celebrate Indonesia’s rich cultural heritage. Among the most notable is the ballet “Dyah Bhumijaya: A True Story from the 9th Century AD”, which brings historical narratives to life through artistic expression. The work not only entertains but also educates the audience about Indonesia’s archaeological treasures.
Another significant project was the ballet “Siwa Grha Prambanan Temple”, which highlighted the architectural and cultural significance of Prambanan Temple. Through her direction, Nurkotimah successfully combined traditional dance with storytelling, creating an engaging experience that resonated with both local and international audiences.
In addition to her theatrical endeavors, Nurkotimah also contributes to the Sound of Borobudur project, where she works as an archaeological reviewer. This initiative aims to replicate the musical instruments depicted in the reliefs of Borobudur Temple, further emphasizing the importance of cultural preservation and the role of archaeology in understanding Indonesia’s past.
Nurkotimah’s dedication to cultural diversity and her innovative approach to archaeology make her a role model for aspiring students. Her achievements are a testament to the impact that education and cultural engagement can have on society. As she continues to inspire others, Nurkotimah remains committed to promoting Indonesia’s rich cultural heritage through her work.
As the world increasingly recognizes the importance of cultural diversity in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Nurkotimah’s contributions stand out as a beacon of hope and inspiration. Her journey reflects how individuals can make a difference in their communities by embracing and celebrating their cultural identity.
Author: Sektiadi assisted by ugm/search
Photo: Sektiadi
