The opening ceremony was officially led by Dr. Drs. I Nyoman Subanda, M.Si, Vice Rector for Partnership and Entrepreneurship at Undiknas. The event was also attended by representatives from Bank BPD Bali as sponsors, government officials, the organizing committee, and all participating teams who will compete in this year’s tournament.

In his opening remarks, Dr. I Nyoman Subanda emphasized that the Bank BPD Bali Undiknas Rector Cup is not just a sports competition, but also a platform for fostering and developing young talents in basketball. This event is expected to produce potential young athletes who can achieve success at higher levels.

“This competition is a great opportunity for young athletes to showcase their skills,” said Dr. I Nyoman Subanda.

Undiknas also announced scholarship opportunities for talented players, including the champions of the competition, to continue their studies at Universitas Pendidikan Nasional through an achievement pathway in sports, particularly basketball.

The Bank BPD Bali Undiknas Rector Cup 2025 will run for one week, from March 9 to March 15, 2025, featuring various youth basketball teams from high schools and vocational schools (SMA/SMK) across Bali.

Flag Ceremony and Independence Day Competitions

The main event of the Independence Day celebration was the Flag Ceremony, led by the Rector of Undiknas, Prof. Dr. Ir. Nyoman Sri Subawa, S.T., S.Sos., M.M., IPM., ASEAN Eng., who acted as the ceremony’s officiant. The hoisting of the Red and White flag was carried out by the Student Regiment (Menwa), serving as the Flag Hoisting Troops (Paskibraka).

Following the ceremony, various traditional independence day competitions were held involving all participants. Some of the competitions included:

• Water Bottle Filling Race  
• Cheerleading Competition
• Eating Crackers Race  
• Eel Catching Competition
• Ball Dancing Competition

The competitions concluded with the distribution of door prizes and a communal lunch, filled with the spirit of independence.

Strengthening Nationalism and Solidarity

By involving the entire academic community in the ceremony and various group activities, Undiknas not only reinforces the sense of nationalism but also fosters unity and solidarity. This event aligns with SDG Goal 16, “Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions.” Undiknas’s commitment to supporting SDGs is reflected in its efforts to build strong connections among all members of the academic community. It is hoped that this event will encourage the creation of an inclusive and harmonious environment, which is fundamental to the sustainability of a quality educational institution.