UNS — Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS) Surakarta celebrated its 49th Dies Natalis with a symbolic tree-planting event. Fifty-eight newly inaugurated professors, who received their official appointments in December 2024 and February 2025, took part in the event. The UNS Rector, Vice Rectors, Deans, and newly inaugurated professors attended a ceremonial gathering to begin the symbolic tree-planting activity.
UNS held the symbolic tree planting near UNS Lake on Thursday (10/4/2025), then continued with plantings at each professor’s faculty. This initiative highlights UNS’s ongoing commitment to creating a green and sustainable campus.
Strengthening UNS’s Environmental Commitment
Prof. Drs. Suranto Tjiptowibisono, M.Sc., Ph.D., Chair of the UNS Board of Professors, emphasized the importance of environmental preservation. He stated that the event was part of the university’s long-term effort to promote a green campus. It also aimed to contribute to climate change mitigation.
“This tree planting represents UNS’s commitment to environmental sustainability. It’s more than an anniversary celebration. It’s a meaningful action to raise awareness about the need to protect nature for future generations,” Prof. Suranto said.
By involving 58 professors in this initiative, UNS demonstrates its dedication to both academic excellence and environmental responsibility. The university hopes that this event will spark a broader movement toward greener campuses across the country.
The professors planted a variety of trees, each selected for its ecological and social benefits. Their participation also aims to inspire other academic institutions to take similar steps toward environmental care.
Professors Share Meaningful Tree Choices
UNS Rector, Prof. Dr. Hartono, dr., M.Si., expressed his deep appreciation for the professors’ involvement. He highlighted that planting trees reflects the university’s core values—responsibility, sustainability, and local wisdom.
“In the face of global climate change, universities must lead by example. We have both a moral and scientific duty to take real action,” he remarked.
He added that each tree planted represents hope. “We hope for a greener UNS. We also hope that the knowledge we cultivate will grow to benefit both the nation and the world,” he said.
Prof. Hartono also urged that this activity should not end as a ceremonial event. “Let this be a tradition that we grow together,” he concluded.
Prof. Dra. Ani Rakhmawati, M.A., Ph.D., from the Faculty of Teacher Training and Education (FKIP), was among the participating professors. Prof. Ir. Ary Setyawan, M.Sc., Ph.D., from the Faculty of Engineering (FT), also took part in the event. Prof. Ani planted a Mulwo tree (Annona reticulata L.), while Prof. Ary planted a Duku tree.
Prof. Ani noted the symbolic value of planting fruit trees. “UNS already has many lush trees, so this time, we chose fruit-bearing trees to attract birds and wildlife. Mulwo is also a rare fruit nowadays, which is why I chose it. God willing, I’ll take care of it so it thrives,” she said. Prof. Ary explained the meaning behind his choice. “When you peel the Duku fruit, its flesh resembles Arabic script. Planting a Duku tree symbolizes planting knowledge—allowing it to grow and benefit future generations,” he explained.
HUMAS UNS
