On August 16, 2024, Universitas Terbuka (UT) celebrated Indonesia’s 79th Independence Day with a series of festive events held at the UTCC building in Pondok Cabe. The spirit of enthusiasm was palpable from the early morning as all UT Central Office employees gathered to participate in a group exercise session, which marked the beginning of the day’s activities. 

Following the group exercise, the event continued with a creative dance competition between various units. The excitement was evident as teams from seven units, DPKS, DMAU, DAAK, FEB, PBBI, FST, FHISIP, and LPPM, showcased their creativity on stage. Their dynamic moves, combined with vibrant costumes, added to the festive atmosphere, making the event lively and full of joy. 

After a lunch break, the festivities resumed with traditional “17-an” games, a much-anticipated highlight of the day. UT employees competed in various fun games, including a marble relay, cracker-eating contest, hands-free pants race, peek-a-ball, sack race, ball dancing, and balloon dragon race. The cheers from supporters, dressed in red and white accessories, added to the competitive and joyful atmosphere. 

Vice-Rector for Finance and Human Resources, Prof. Ali Muktiyanto, officially opened the afternoon session with great enthusiasm, representing the Rector who was away on official duties. In his remarks, Prof. Ali expressed gratitude for the 79th anniversary of independence and UT’s 40th anniversary, urging the UT community to celebrate with joy. “Enjoy the event, winning or losing doesn’t matter. What’s important is to be brave and have fun together,” Prof. Ali concluded. 

These activities not only served as a moment to commemorate independence but also as an opportunity to strengthen camaraderie among UT employees.