The Nationalism Spirit of UPJ Students at the August 17 Celebration at the Indonesian Consulate General in Frankfurt, Germany

Bintaro, South Tangerang 21/08/2024 - Frankfurt, Germany – Ten students from Universitas Pembangunan Jaya (UPJ), currently participating in a Summer School program at the University of Cologne, made history by taking part in the 79th Indonesian Independence Day celebration at the Indonesian Consulate General (KJRI) in Frankfurt on August 17, 2024.

In an atmosphere filled with the spirit of nationalism, the Indonesian community in Germany gathered at KJRI Frankfurt to commemorate this historic day. Despite being far from their homeland, the solemn and grateful flag-raising ceremony created an ambiance as in their Homeland. The UPJ students not only attended as participants but also became part of the event by delivering two captivating cultural performances.

The participation of these UPJ students was a tangible contribution to introducing Indonesian culture on the international stage. The participating students came from various study programs, including Product Design, Communication Science, Management, and Information Systems. They performed the Janger Bali Dance, a traditional dance from Bali known for its dynamic and joyful movements, as well as the national song "Indonesia Pusaka," which evoked a deep sense of patriotism in the hearts of all who heard it.

Lena Simanjuntak, Chairwoman of the Deutsch-Indonesische Gesellschaft e.V. Köln (DIG), expressed her pride after the UPJ students' performance. “We are very honored to have helped UPJ students perform in front of the Indonesian community in Frankfurt. The Janger Dance and Indonesia Pusaka song not only showcased the richness of Indonesian culture but also strengthened the sense of unity and togetherness among us who are far from home,” she said.

The presence of UPJ students at this event also added a unique touch to the Independence Day celebration in Frankfurt. Besides representing the younger generation of Indonesia, their performance symbolized that Indonesian culture remains alive and valued wherever it may be, even abroad.

More than just entertainment, the participation of UPJ students at KJRI Frankfurt is expected to inspire other young Indonesians to continue preserving and promoting the nation’s culture on the global stage.

This event also brought a sense of pride to UPJ as an educational institution that fully supports the development and involvement of its students in international forums. With the active participation of UPJ students in this cultural activity, it is hoped that global awareness of Indonesia's cultural richness will increase, fostering a spirit of nationalism among the younger generation.

At the end of the event, the students and attendees joined together in singing patriotic songs, closing the celebration with a strong sense of togetherness. The August 17 celebration at KJRI Frankfurt not only served as a moment to reflect on history but also as an opportunity to strengthen the bond between Indonesia and its people living abroad.