The Faculty of Social and Political Sciences (FISIP) took part in celebrating the 61st anniversary of Universitas Negeri Semarang (UNNES) by performing the Ya Saman dance, highlighting a strong message of gender equality.
A total of 20 performers, consisting of lecturers and administrative staff members of FISIP, appeared in front of thousands of spectators at Prof. Dirham Field, Sekaran, Gunungpati, Semarang. Dressed in red costumes, they carried attributes displaying messages about gender equality.
Sanita Carolina, a lecturer in Social Studies Education, explained that Ya Saman originates from Palembang, South Sumatra, and is traditionally performed to welcome guests.
“The Ya Saman dance from Palembang is a welcoming dance that reflects values of brotherhood, solidarity, and hospitality. The movements are not difficult because we perform it with enthusiasm, especially for the 61st anniversary celebration of UNNES. With thorough preparation, the FISIP team was able to deliver a good performance,” she said.
Niswa Adlina Labiba, a lecturer from the Political Science Study Program, added that FISIP’s performance was inspired by Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) point 5 on gender equality.
“FISIP highlighted SDG 5, gender equality. It is essential and must be implemented on campus. FISIP should be a fair and inclusive space where everyone both women and men has equal opportunities to learn, express opinions, and contribute without discrimination,” she explained.
Meanwhile, Eka Yudha, a lecturer from the History Study Program, stated that the team held intensive rehearsals for two weeks. “We practiced intensively for two weeks. It was not difficult,” he said.
In addition to FISIP, 16 faculties and institutions within UNNES also presented dance performances themed around the SDGs as part of the university’s anniversary celebration.
