Graduation Gala 2026: UAD Honors 26 International Graduates in a Heartwarming Celebration
Yogyakarta, July 27, 2026 — Ahmad Dahlan University (UAD) honored 26 international students who successfully completed their studies in the 2025/2026 academic year during the Graduation Gala 2026, held at the Grand Rohan Hotel, Yogyakarta, on Monday (July 27).
Celebrating the spirit of unity and cultural diversity, the event served as both a tribute to the graduates’ achievements and a reflection on their journey as valued members of the UAD community. The ceremony was attended by Prof. Dr. Muchlas, M.T., Rector of UAD; Prof. Ir. Sunardi, S.T., M.T., Ph.D., Vice Rector for Academic Affairs; Ulaya Ahdiani, S.S., M.Hum., Head of the Office of Cooperation and International Affairs (OCIA); along with deans and heads of study programs.
26 International Graduates and Growing Global Interest
The event opened with a report by Ulaya Ahdiani, S.S., M.Hum., Head of OCIA. She announced that 26 international students had successfully graduated from various academic programs at UAD during the 2025/2026 academic year.
She also highlighted the growing international interest in UAD’s full-time degree programs. As of the publication of this article, 94 prospective international students had applied to enroll in UAD’s regular degree programs throughout 2026, reflecting the university’s increasing global appeal.
Following the report, Prof. Dr. Muchlas, M.T., Rector of UAD, congratulated the graduates and expressed his appreciation for their perseverance and dedication throughout their academic journey. He encouraged them to use the knowledge and experiences gained at UAD to make meaningful contributions in their respective countries while remaining lifelong members of the UAD family.
Three International Students Graduate with Cum Laude Honors
One of the highlights of the evening was the recognition of three international graduates who earned cum laude honors: Halkano Qala Bonaya, a Kenyan graduate from the Master’s Program in Mathematics Education; Sakis Che Mamat, a Thai graduate from the English Literature Program; and Alisa Muhammad Imraan, an Indian graduate from the Management Program.
Their achievements stand as a testament to how cultural diversity and academic excellence can thrive together within an inclusive learning environment.
The celebration also featured artistic performances by international students, including singing, poetry recitations, and traditional Indonesian pantun performances. These presentations created a warm and memorable atmosphere while showcasing the rich cultural diversity that has become an integral part of campus life at UAD.
“UAD Has Become My Second Home”
One of the most memorable moments of the evening came from the testimonial of Halkano Qala Bonaya, a graduate of the Master’s Program in Mathematics Education from Kenya.
Reflecting on his experience in Indonesia, Halkano shared that what impressed him most was not only the beauty of Yogyakarta but also the kindness and sincerity of its people.
“I’ve been deeply impressed not only by the beautiful places in Yogyakarta, but even more by its people.”
He also recalled how the simple Indonesian expressions “terima kasih” (thank you) and “sama-sama” (you’re welcome) taught him the importance of gratitude and genuine human connection.
“UAD has become my second home. And through this experience, I’ve learned that home is not always the place where you were born. Sometimes, home is the place where people make you feel welcomed, accepted, and that you truly belong.”
His testimony reflects how the international student experience at UAD extends far beyond academic success. It is also about building lifelong friendships, embracing new cultures, and finding a true sense of belonging within a diverse and welcoming community.
From UAD to the World
Graduation Gala 2026 marked both the conclusion of one journey and the beginning of another for UAD’s international graduates. As the university continues to strengthen its commitment to building an inclusive, globally connected academic environment, it remains dedicated to welcoming students from around the world and preparing them to become future global leaders.
For these graduates, UAD was more than a place to earn a degree. As Halkano beautifully expressed, it became a second home—a place where they were welcomed, valued, and embraced as members of one family.
Congratulations to the 26 international graduates of Ahmad Dahlan University.
From UAD to the world.
