UNIPMA – Universitas PGRI Madiun (UNIPMA) participated in celebrating the 108th Anniversary of Madiun City through its performance at the Madiun Spektra Carnival 2026, held on Thursday (June 25). At the event, UNIPMA presented a cultural performance titled "Swarga Katulistiwa: UNIPMA's Celebration in Cultural Harmony," highlighting the rich diversity of Indonesia's cultures alongside the local wisdom of Madiun City.

UNIPMA's performance was part of the carnival procession that followed the route from Pahlawan Street Center, along Jalan Pahlawan, Jalan Cokroaminoto, Jalan Musi, and Jalan Agus Salim, before concluding at Mercure Hotel Madiun. Through this concept, UNIPMA showcased a collaboration of traditional arts and cultures from various regions across Indonesia as a tribute to the nation's rich cultural diversity.

The Head of UNIPMA's Student Affairs Bureau (BKM), Dr. Elly's Mersina M., S.Pd., M.Pd., explained that this year's central theme was Nusantara (the Indonesian Archipelago). The theme was chosen to represent Indonesia's cultural richness from across the country while incorporating the unique local identity of Madiun City.

"UNIPMA showcases the cultural diversity of various regions while also highlighting the distinctive local heritage of Madiun as part of the Indonesian Archipelago," she said.

She added that one of the local elements featured in the performance was the 'City of Warriors' (Kota Pendekar) icon, which has long been recognized as the identity of Madiun City. The inclusion of this symbol was intended to strengthen the cultural message conveyed through UNIPMA's performance.

The concept of "Swarga Katulistiwa" was inspired by Indonesia's position along the equator, with its thousands of islands, hundreds of ethnic groups, languages, traditions, and vibrant artistic heritage that continues to thrive. Through traditional dances, music, costumes, and the creativity of its students, UNIPMA presented the richness of Indonesia's cultural diversity within the spirit of national unity.

One of the main visual elements was the Gunungan Wayang, a symbolic representation of life, the human journey, and the harmony of the universe. In addition, the colorful wings featured on the performance mascot symbolized Indonesia's diverse cultures, united under the shared spirit of togetherness.

Dr. Elly's Mersina M., S.Pd., M.Pd., explained that the performance was the result of collaboration among various student organizations and members of the university's academic community. Although coordinated by the Dance Student Activity Unit (UKM Tari), the performance also involved the Reog Student Activity Unit, Scout Unit, Putra-Putri UNIPMA (PPU), and student representatives from various study programs who had been selected through a talent selection process.

"This is a collaborative effort involving multiple student organizations. It is not limited to just one unit. The Dance Unit, Reog Unit, Scouts, Putra-Putri UNIPMA, and representatives from various study programs all contributed to this performance," she added.

Preparations for the performance were carried out intensively, beginning with talent selection, performance concept development, regular rehearsals, and full dress rehearsals. The entire preparation process took place over several weeks leading up to the carnival.

Through its participation in the Madiun Spektra Carnival 2026, UNIPMA hopes to further strengthen its partnership with the Madiun City Government while making a meaningful contribution to cultural preservation and the development of creativity among the younger generation.

"We hope that the cooperation and synergy that have been established will continue to grow and bring positive impacts to both parties," she concluded.