Jokowi Diploma Controversy: Gadjah mada University Responds
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Yogyakarta, Indonesia – Gadjah Mada University (UGM) has affirmed it is not responsible for the circulation of images depicting President Joko Widodo‘s bachelor’s degree diploma on social media.The university maintains it properly issued the diploma and handed the original document to President Widodo upon his graduation in 1985.
UGM’s Statement on Diploma Issuance
UGM Chancellor, Ova Emilia, stated the university possesses records confirming President Widodo completed his studies at the Faculty of Forestry and was officially granted a degree. She confirmed the original diploma was delivered to President Widodo in November 1985. “The diploma was handed over in 1985 to the person concerned,” Emilia explained in a video statement released Friday. “Thus, gadjah Mada University does not want to comment on diplomas that already exist in the possession of the individual.”
Dean of the Faculty of Forestry, Sigit Sunarta, added that only one original diploma document was printed, with the university retaining only copies. he further stated that any official files containing personal information will only be provided to authorities as per legal requirements.Currently,copies of the diploma are in the possession of the police for investigation.
vice Chancellor Wening Udasmoro emphasized that UGM is legally restricted from displaying personal data, including diplomas, to third parties seeking verification of alumni status. The appropriate procedure,she stated,is for the individual to present their diploma directly.
Did You Know? Indonesian universities typically retain only copies of diplomas after the original is issued to the graduate.
Context of the Diploma Question
The controversy surrounding President Widodo’s diploma emerged recently with questions raised about its validity on social media.Subsequent analyses of circulating images have alleged the diploma is not authentic. UGM’s response aims to address these concerns and clarify its role in the issuance process.
The university’s stance underscores the importance of maintaining the privacy of student records and adhering to legal protocols regarding personal data. This aligns with broader data protection principles outlined in Indonesian law, such as Law Number 27 of 2022 concerning Personal Data Protection (PDP Law).
timeline of Events
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| November 1985 | Joko Widodo graduates from the Faculty of Forestry, Gadjah Mada University. |
| November 1985 | UGM hands over the original diploma to Joko Widodo. |
| Recent | Questions arise on social media regarding the authenticity of President Widodo’s diploma. |
| August 22, 2024 | UGM releases a statement addressing the controversy. |
What steps should universities take to balance transparency with the protection of student data?
Pro Tip: When verifying academic credentials, always contact the issuing institution directly and follow their official procedures.
UGM officials reiterated that they are not responsible for verifying the authenticity of images circulating on social media, as the original diploma is in the possession of President Widodo.
The Broader Context of Diploma Verification
Diploma verification is a growing concern globally,with increasing instances of fraudulent credentials. Universities are continually refining their processes to safeguard the integrity of their degrees and protect the interests of both institutions and graduates. The rise of digital diplomas and blockchain technology offers potential solutions for secure and verifiable credentialing (Educause Review).
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is UGM’s stance on the authenticity of Jokowi’s diploma? UGM confirms it issued a diploma to Joko Widodo in 1985 and handed the original to him.
- Why isn’t UGM providing a copy of the diploma? UGM is legally restricted from sharing personal data, including diplomas, with third parties.
- Where is the original diploma currently located? The original diploma is in the possession of President Joko Widodo.
- What is UGM doing to address the concerns raised on social media? UGM has released a statement clarifying its role in the issuance process and affirming the diploma was properly issued.
- What are the legal implications of possessing a fraudulent diploma? Possessing a fraudulent diploma can lead to legal penalties, including fines and imprisonment.
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