The Master’s Program in Mathematics, FMIPA UGM, through HIMPASTIKA, organized a soft skill development event for students of the 2024 cohort. This event was part of the AKSIOMA 2024 series, held on September 7-8, 2024, with the theme “Bring Me into Your Story.” The event took place at Villa WillHouse, Kaliurang.
The group arrived at the location on Saturday, September 7, 2024, around 4:30 PM, followed by ISHOMA (rest, prayer, meal) and room assignments. The event resumed at 7:30 PM with a sharing session led by Muhammad Reza Subakti, Chair of HIMPASTIKA, alongside students from the 2023 and 2024 cohorts. The next session was the much-anticipated bonfire and talent show, where each cohort showcased their artistic talents. At precisely 10:00 PM, the committee conducted an evaluation, and the participants rested.
The next day, the event began with a morning exercise session from 6:00 to 7:00 AM. Despite the cold weather, all participants enthusiastically followed the movements led by the exercise instructors, Nadia Indarwati Setia Budi and Leniy Eka Watiy S. Afterward, they enjoyed breakfast together.
The following session featured a soft skill development presentation by the SWARAGAMA Training Center (STC) team. The presentation was delivered by Gideon Surya, S.Kom, PLT, a professional trainer who has been involved in human development since 2007.
“I am the DRIVER, Not the Passenger!”
“From birth, humans are given a ‘vehicle’ we call the ‘Self.’ Only through self-driving can humans develop their full potential and achieve things they never imagined. In contrast, the passenger mentality, instilled from childhood and reinforced by executives, only leads to complaints and a sense of being trapped. A ‘Driver’ is a leader who, during their journey, may make mistakes or collide with other vehicles. If an accident happens, they are responsible, not the passenger. Meanwhile, a ‘Passenger’ is a leader likened to a traveler who is heading toward a destination. They may become drowsy, fall asleep, remain silent, and do not need to know the direction or work hard to maintain the vehicle. The Driver is the winner (successful person), and the Passenger is the loser (failed person),” explained Gideon, as the audience responded with loud applause.
The session was also attended by the Head of the Department of Mathematics, Dr. Nanang Susyanto, M.Sc., M.Act.Sc., along with the Head and Secretary of the Master’s Program in Mathematics, Prof. Dr. Sri Wahyuni, S.U., and Dr. Indarsih, M.Si., as well as program administrators and PUMK staff, Wira Kurniawan and Emiliana Sunaryani Y.
“The Department of Mathematics fully supports AKSIOMA events like this. These activities are highly beneficial for student development, improving soft skills, and providing a platform for students to connect with one another,” said Dr. Nanang Susyanto, M.Sc., M.Act.Sc., emphasizing the importance of soft skills in supporting both academic and professional success.
Various exciting and educational games were held, including team-building exercises, problem-solving simulations, and physical challenges. Students were encouraged to work together in completing tasks designed to enhance communication, adaptability, and leadership skills.
This outbound activity concluded with a reflection and evaluation session led by the STC mentors. Through this event, it is hoped that students will not only gain academic knowledge but also non-technical skills that will be beneficial for their careers and social lives. The improvement in leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving skills gained during this activity aligns with SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, which encourages productivity and teamwork skills.
Keywords: Soft Skill Development, HIMPASTIKA, Leadership Training
Writer: Wira Kurniawan
Editor: Endang Sulastri
Photos: Wira Kurniawan