Universitas Muhammadiyah Purworejo (UMPWR) once again demonstrated its contribution to the preservation of local culture and regional languages through the involvement of its lecturer at the provincial level. Eko Santosa, a lecturer of the Javanese Language and Literature Education Study Program (PBSJ), Faculty of Teacher Training and Education (FKIP) UMPWR, served as a speaker in the Technical Guidance for Master Teachers on Regional Language Preservation at the Elementary School Level organized by Balai Bahasa Provinsi Jawa Tengah on Monday, May 18, 2026, in Semarang.
During the program, Eko Santosa delivered a presentation entitled “Ngarang Cakepan Tembang Macapat lan Pengenalan Laras Slendro-Pelog” (Composing Macapat Lyrics and Introduction to Slendro-Pelog Scales). The technical guidance was attended by elementary school teachers, principals, school supervisors, as well as practitioners, university academics, artists, writers, and cultural figures from various regions across Central Java. Participants were divided into three classes, each consisting of around 30 participants.
This activity was part of a strategic effort to preserve regional languages, particularly the Javanese language, to ensure its continuity and transmission to younger generations through elementary education. The technical guidance featured several learning divisions, including macapat, speech, Javanese script writing, geguritan, ndagel ijen, and storytelling. Each division involved three speakers responsible for delivering theory, teaching methods, and practical sessions.
In his session, Eko Santosa explained that tembang macapat belongs to the category of sekar alit, which follows specific rules or paugeran. He elaborated on important elements of macapat, such as guru gatra, guru wilangan, and guru lagu, while also introducing the fundamentals of slendro and pelog scales as essential components of traditional Javanese vocal arts.
According to him, preserving regional language and literature cannot rely solely on theoretical learning, but must also be brought to life through enjoyable cultural practices closely connected to the educational environment. Through this activity, teachers are expected to become active agents in preserving regional languages within their respective schools.
The participation of UMPWR lecturers in this provincial-level activity serves as tangible evidence of the university’s commitment to supporting local cultural development while strengthening the role of higher education institutions as centers for preserving local wisdom values amid the currents of globalization.
Contributor: Eko Santosa, M.Hum.
Editor: Akbar/KP
