UGM Launches Dato’ Dr. Low Tuck Kwong-PYC Scholarship Student Association to Promote Academic Excellence and Social Impact
On October 21, 2025, the Dato’ Dr. Low Tuck Kwong-Purnomo Yusgiantoro Center (PYC) Scholarship Student Association was inaugurated at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) during an event held at the UGM Innovation and Creativity Hub (GIK UGM). In attendance were entrepreneur Dato’ Dr. Low Tuck Kwong, Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Cultural Affairs Professor Pratikno, and UGM Rector Professor Ova Emilia.
Purpose of the Inauguration
The inauguration aimed to foster collaboration among scholarship donors, recipients, and the UGM academic community, focusing on enhancing the social impact of the scholarship program. The Dato’ Dr. Low Tuck Kwong-PYC Scholarship has provided financial support to deserving students from diverse backgrounds, including those from economically disadvantaged families, as well as student leaders and individuals excelling in non-academic areas.
Scholarship Recipients for 2024-2025
For the 2024-2025 academic year, 311 students received the scholarship across various categories. Of these, 180 students were awarded support for academic excellence based on financial need, 20 for thesis completion, 75 for student activism, and 36 through the Talent Scouting (Penelusuran Bibit Unggul/PBU) track. Since its establishment in 2021, the scholarship program has supported over 1,950 students at UGM.
Statements from UGM Leadership
During the inauguration, UGM Rector Professor Ova Emilia highlighted Dato’ Dr. Low Tuck Kwong’s and the PYC’s ongoing commitment to nurturing exceptional talent at UGM through this scholarship program. She noted that the initiative represents more than financial aid, emphasizing its role as a social investment aimed at developing leadership, empathy, and integrity among students.
Professor Emilia remarked that the program reaches not only academically outstanding students but also those facing economic challenges and individuals excelling in sports and the arts, aligning with UGM’s mission as a people’s university dedicated to broadening educational access.
Government Support for UGM’s Mission
Coordinating Minister Professor Pratikno emphasized UGM’s significant role in improving educational opportunities for various social groups. He recalled the difficulties rural youth faced in accessing education in 1997 and commended UGM’s efforts toward inclusivity, which have enabled many to secure improved futures.
Future Vision of the Scholarship Association
The establishment of the Dato’ Dr. Low Tuck Kwong-PYC Scholarship Student Association is anticipated to provide a platform for scholarship recipients to foster collaboration, promote personal development, and commit to social contributions, encouraging them to make positive societal changes. This initiative showcases UGM’s efforts to enhance educational accessibility and cultivate future leaders for Indonesia.
(Source: UGM)
