Pestarama #10+1: FITK Students Foster Critical Reflection Through Literature, Theatre, and Cultural Expression

FITK, UIN News Online — The Faculty of Education and Teacher Training (FITK) at UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta once again hosted the Pekan Apresiasi Sastra dan Drama (Pestarama) #10+1, a cultural festival that serves as a platform for student creativity, critical reflection, and artistic collaboration. Carrying the theme “The Absurdity of Existence and the Erosion of Conscience,” the festival was held from April 13 to May 16, 2026.

As one of FITK’s flagship cultural events, Pestarama provides students with opportunities to explore contemporary social issues through literature, theatre, and various forms of artistic expression. More than a showcase of creative work, the festival encourages participants to engage critically with the realities of modern society and the human condition.

The festival’s culminating event, Panggung Ekspresi (Expression Stage), took place on May 16 and brought together representatives from government institutions, cultural organizations, university leadership, students, and members of the wider community.

Among the distinguished guests were Agung Priosusanto, S.E., M.M., Head of Cultural Development at the South Jakarta Culture Office; Yanuar Mandiri, S.Pd., M.Hum., Head of Administration at the Cultural Preservation Center (BPK) Region VIII; FITK Dean Prof. Siti Nurul Azkiyah, M.Sc., Ph.D.; and Head of the Indonesian Language and Literature Education Program Dr. Ahmad Bahtiar, M.Hum.

Speaking at the event, Agung Priosusanto praised Pestarama for its contribution to the development of student theatre and cultural engagement in the digital era.

“We see Pestarama as one of the driving forces behind the student theatre ecosystem in Jakarta,” he said.

Echoing this sentiment, Dean Prof. Siti Nurul Azkiyah emphasized that Pestarama is far more than an academic assignment or extracurricular activity.

“Pestarama serves as a social and cultural laboratory where students cultivate empathy, critical awareness, and a deeper understanding of humanity,” she remarked.

Festival producer Rosida Erowati added that this year's theme reflects a broader contemplation of materialism, existential uncertainty, and the moral challenges faced by contemporary society.

Meanwhile, Dr. Ahmad Bahtiar highlighted the festival as evidence of students’ ability to translate theoretical knowledge into practical cultural initiatives.

“Pestarama demonstrates that our students are not only academically capable but also creative, adaptive, and able to manage large-scale cultural events that bring together diverse segments of society,” he explained.

The festival also showcased strong collaboration between educational institutions and cultural stakeholders. Support was provided by Indonesia’s Ministry of Culture through its Cultural Advancement Facilitation Program, implemented in partnership with the Cultural Preservation Center (BPK) Region VIII.

The collaboration underscores a shared commitment to preserving cultural heritage while creating meaningful opportunities for young people to express their ideas and engage with society through the arts.

Throughout its month-long program, Pestarama featured a variety of educational and cultural activities. The festival began with an Acting Workshop for students on April 13, followed by a Drama Script Adaptation Workshop for teachers on April 14.

A national seminar titled “The Aesthetics of Resistance in Indonesian Literature and Theatre” was held on April 15, bringing together scholars, educators, and cultural practitioners to discuss the role of artistic expression in addressing social issues.

One of the festival’s major attractions was a series of theatrical performances based on acclaimed Indonesian literary works, including Sumur Tanpa Dasar, Robohnya Surau Kami, and Musyawarah Burung. These performances were accompanied by a decade retrospective exhibition celebrating Pestarama’s journey and contributions to student arts and culture.

The exhibition was held from May 12–14 at the Bulungan Youth Center Performance Hall in South Jakarta, offering visitors a look back at the festival’s development over the past decade.

Now entering its eleventh edition through the symbolic theme of #10+1, Pestarama continues to demonstrate the enduring relevance of literature and theatre as spaces for dialogue, critical inquiry, and creative exploration.

With support from the Ministry of Culture and numerous institutional partners, the organizers hope the festival will continue to nurture artistic talent, encourage intellectual engagement, and strengthen the role of culture in higher education.