Bandung, WPs. - “Even though we still miss our hometowns, students must stay motivated in continuing their studies,” said Dr. Hernawan, S.Pd., M.Pd., setting the tone on the first day of classes after Eid al-Fitr at the Sundanese Language Education Study Program, Faculty of Language and Literature Education (FPBS), Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia (UPI), on Monday (30/3/2026). After a fairly long break, students returned to class with great enthusiasm.
Beyond simply returning to the classroom, this moment was also enlivened by the tradition of sharing ‘kakarén’ - regional souvenirs brought from students’ hometowns. “This moment also helps relieve our longing for home, because by sharing kakarén, the warmth of friendship feels even stronger,” said Nur Meilani, a student of the Sundanese Language Education Study Program. The sense of closeness was palpable as students exchanged food, and even lecturers joined in enjoying the treats.
The kakarén tradition that accompanies the post-Eid class atmosphere is connected to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities). By sharing souvenirs, students not only create a warm and inclusive learning environment, but also cultivate togetherness, empathy, and mutual respect as part of the educational process. At the same time, the practice of kakarén represents an effort to preserve local Sundanese culture that supports the creation of sustainable, values-driven communities, making this tradition meaningful not only socially, but also in terms of its contribution to sustainable development.
In addition, a halal bihalal gathering was held in the classroom together with the course lecturer. The activity served as a moment of friendship and mutual forgiveness after Eid al-Fitr, strengthening the relationship between students and lecturers.
The resumption of classes is expected to be a positive start for students to refocus on their studies and improve academic achievements in the new semester. (Hilal Adha, Dian Hendrayana)