On Friday (June 12, 2026), the Faculty of Law, Gadjah Mada University (FH UGM), through the Legal Consultation and Assistance Center (PKBH), conducted its first legal counseling session at Class IIA Yogyakarta Prison in 2026. This legal counseling is a concrete step taken as part of the community service, in line with one of the pillars of the Tri Dharma of Higher Education. The multi-helix activity involves various elements of the academic community, including lecturers, students, and prison officials.
The event began at 9:00 AM in the auditorium of the Class IIA Yogyakarta Prison. Two lecturers served as speakers, presenting on different themes. Dr. Sigid Riyanto, S.H., M.Si., delivered a presentation on "Detention and Judicial Process," focusing on criminal law, specifically discussing case flow and legal assistance procedures. Meanwhile, Virga Dwi Efendi, S.H., LL.M., presented on "Business Identification Number Registration Program: A New Path to Independent Business Post-Incarceration," focusing on the realm of Administrative Law. Both topics were designed to be coherent and relevant to the realities faced by the participants. The legal counseling, which lasted until 11:00 AM, was conducted in a very conducive atmosphere, filled with enthusiasm as participants actively engaged in the Q&A session. This legal counseling is expected to serve as a means to increase awareness of the rights of Inmates and contribute to the strengthening of an inclusive and peaceful society.
The legal counseling activity at Class IIA Yogyakarta Prison aligns with the spirit of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 4 regarding Quality Education through the presentation of coherent and relevant material for participants. Additionally, Goal 16 concerning Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions is addressed through legal counseling efforts aimed at enhancing legal awareness among inmates in the realms of Criminal Law and Administrative Law to form strong institutions and legal understanding. Lastly, Goal 17 regarding Partnerships to Achieve the Goals is realized through ongoing collaborative processes between FH UGM and the prison.
Author: Benediktus Concilio Sinaga (PKBH FH UGM)
