Yogyakarta – The Master’s Program in Food Science and Technology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (MFST UGM), welcomed its new students for the 2026/2027 odd semester on Thursday, August 13, 2026, at the Faculty of Agricultural Technology UGM. The event was held together with the Master’s Program in Estate Crop Product Technology and the Doctoral Program in Food Science as an introduction to postgraduate study at the Department of Food and Agricultural Product Technology.
Around 30 new postgraduate students joined the event, including 24 students from MFST UGM. Two of them are international students from Timor-Leste who attended online through Google Meet, making the event a hybrid session.
The event was opened by Dr. Qurrotul A’yun, S.T.P., M.Sc., Secretary of MFST UGM, who also served as the moderator. It continued with welcoming remarks from Prof. Dr. Ir. Tyas Utami, M.Sc., Head of the Department of Food and Agricultural Product Technology.
In her remarks, Prof. Tyas encouraged the students to see their time at UGM as more than just a period of academic study. She highlighted the importance of building character, staying humble, maintaining good relationships with others, and making the most of every opportunity during their studies.
“UGM is not only a place to gain knowledge, but also a place to build character so that you can make a positive impact after graduation. I hope you can use your time well and complete your studies on time,” she said.
The students were then introduced to the Department of Food and Agricultural Product Technology in a session led by Dr. Arima Diah Setiowati, S.T.P., M.Sc., Secretary of the Doctoral Program in Food Science. The session covered the department’s management, postgraduate program accreditation, faculty members, academic and research facilities, as well as opportunities available to students throughout their studies.
Students were also introduced to activities beyond the classroom, including student mobility programs, field trips, and community service. These activities are designed to give students broader academic experience, build new skills, and connect with people and communities outside their regular coursework.
During the MFST UGM session, Head of the Program Dr. Widiastuti Setyaningsih, S.T.P., M.Sc., explained what students can expect throughout their studies. She introduced the curriculum, compulsory and elective courses, matriculation requirements, study planning, graduation requirements, and the graduate profile of MFST UGM.
Dr. Widiastuti also encouraged students to plan their studies carefully from the beginning so that their coursework and research can progress smoothly. With good planning and time management, students are expected to complete the program on time, or even in less than two years.
The event continued with introductions to the Master’s Program in Estate Crop Product Technology and the Doctoral Program in Food Science, followed by a discussion and question-and-answer session. Students had the opportunity to ask more about academic procedures, facilities, and the opportunities available during their time at UGM.
Through this welcoming event, new MFST UGM students were given an early look at the academic journey ahead. By learning about the curriculum, facilities, mobility programs, and other student activities, they are expected to begin their studies with a clearer plan and make the most of their postgraduate experience at UGM.
