Faculty of Humanities, Udayana University Holds Retirement Ceremony for Prof. Dr. Ketut Artawa, M.A. Alongside the Book Launch of Tribute "Panorama Kajian Linguistik"

The Faculty of Humanities, Udayana University (FIB Unud) held a retirement ceremony (purnabakti) for Prof. Dr. Ketut Artawa, M.A., on Thursday, October 22, 2026, at the Auditorium Widya Sabha Mandala, FIB Unud. The event was organized as a token of respect for his decades of dedication, service, and intellectual contributions to advancing the field of linguistics and the institution.

The retirement ceremony was attended by the Secretary of Udayana University, the Dean of FIB Unud along with the Vice Deans, the Chair of the FIB Unud Senate, the Head of Balai Bahasa Bali, the Chair of MLI, the Dean of FBA Mahasaraswati University Denpasar, Study Program Coordinators, Heads of Units and Sections, as well as family members, friends, colleagues, alumni, and students.

The Chair of the Organizing Committee, Dr. Sang Ayu Isnu Maharani, S.S., M.Hum., delivered an implementation report stating that the event was held out of deep awareness, affection, and high respect for Prof. Artawa as a true teacher and educator. She also expressed her gratitude to all parties who contributed to the warm and solemn execution of the ceremony.

The event continued with remarks from the Coordinator of the Doctoral Program in Linguistics FIB Unud, Prof. Dr. I Made Netra, S.S., M.Hum., who emphasized that retirement is not a farewell, but rather a momentum to celebrate a journey and continue the values and aspirations established by Prof. Artawa. He commended Prof. Artawa's remarkable contributions in raising the Doctoral Program in Linguistics at Unud to a level equal to reputable linguistics programs across Indonesia, including his recognized dedication in guiding numerous doctoral graduates.

A similar appreciation was expressed by the Dean of FIB Unud, Prof. I Nyoman Aryawibawa, S.S., M.A., Ph.D., who recalled Prof. Artawa's vital role within the faculty. He extended his gratitude for Prof. Artawa's extraordinary dedication and expressed hope that the strong academic traditions and ties would continue sustainably. The program then proceeded with a symbolic release of Prof. Artawa from the Doctoral Program in Linguistics by the Program Coordinator.

Another key highlight of the event was the launch of the retirement tribute book titled "Panorama Kajian Linguistik". The introduction of the book was delivered by Prof. Dr. Sri Satyawati, S.S., M.Hum., who explained that the publication originated from the generosity of contributing authors and colleagues as a celebration of Prof. Artawa's intellectual journey. The book launch was marked by a ceremonial presentation of the book from the authors' representative to Prof. Artawa.

The event continued with a testimonial session where remarks were shared by colleagues, friends, and alumni, both in person and online. Representing colleagues, Prof. I Wayan Pastika, M.S., remembered him as a calm and reassuring figure, as well as a top-tier linguist with globally recognized academic publications. Through a video message, Prof. I Wayan Arka, M.Phil., Ph.D., conveyed his personal reflections and gratitude for Prof. Artawa's mentorship and contributions to linguistics. Representing alumni, Prof. Dr. Jufrizal, M.Hum., affirmed that the knowledge shared by Prof. Artawa will never fade and will always remain a guiding light for his students. Moving remarks were also delivered by long-time colleague Prof. Dr. I Nengah Sudipa, M.A., and former Rector of Unud, Prof. Dr. dr. I Wayan Wita, Sp.JP(K)., FACC.

The session proceeded with a farewell address (Sekapur Sirih) delivered by Prof. Dr. Ketut Artawa, M.A. He reflected on his journey in nurturing the study program, including during the English Literature accreditation process, while emphasizing the importance of passing down knowledge and critical thinking to younger generations. He concluded his address by offering his sincere apologies and deepest gratitude to the organizing committee, leadership, and attending guests. The event then continued with the screening of a tribute video from alumni, before concluding with a networking session.