Little Aresha Daycare Advisor is Active UGM Lecturer, University Speaks Out
The name of Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) lecturer Dr. Cahyaningrum Dewojati has been mentioned as an advisor to the Little Aresha Daycare Foundation. Regarding this matter, the university has spoken out.
UGM spokesperson I Made Andi Arsana confirmed that Cahyaningrum is an active lecturer at the university. However, he emphasised that her involvement in managing the daycare is in her personal capacity, not representing the institution.
“Regarding the information stating that the advisor to the Little Aresha Daycare Foundation in Yogyakarta is one of our university’s lecturers, we can confirm that the individual is indeed an active lecturer involved in managing the daycare in a personal capacity,” said Made Andi in a written statement received by reporters on Monday (27/4/2026).
UGM also expressed concern over the alleged violence occurring in the Little Aresha Daycare environment. The university stated its empathy for the survivors, particularly the children, and the affected families.
“We express deep concern over the alleged violence in the Little Aresha Daycare environment. We also extend sincere empathy to the survivors, especially the children, and the impacted families,” he said.
Made Andi emphasised that, as an institution, UGM has no relationship whatsoever with the Little Aresha Daycare Foundation in Yogyakarta. The university also complies with regulations and fully respects and supports the ongoing legal process.
“We also uphold the principle of objectivity and commitment to child protection. In line with that, we are closely monitoring the developments of this case and are prepared to take follow-up actions within UGM’s capacity based on applicable provisions,” he said.
The university will continue to monitor the case developments and is ready to take further steps in accordance with applicable provisions.
“It should be understood that she is acting in a personal capacity. The matter is still in process. UGM is following the process properly,” he concluded.
Previously, police named 13 individuals as suspects in the case of alleged inhumane treatment at a daycare in Yogyakarta City. The suspects were named following a case review held at the Yogyakarta Police Resort.
“So, until last night, we conducted a case review and then named 13 temporary suspects,” said Yogyakarta Police Chief Kombes Eva Guna Pandia to reporters on Saturday (25/4).
He explained that the suspects include foundation leaders up to caregivers. Regarding the motive, it is still under police investigation.
“The 13 suspects consist of one foundation head, one school head, and 11 caregivers,” he said.
Yogyakarta Police Resort investigators secured 30 people during a raid on the Little Aresha childcare facility in Sorosutan, Umbulharjo, Yogyakarta City. The facility is suspected of inhumane treatment towards the entrusted children.
Yogyakarta Police Resort Criminal Investigation Head Kompol Riski Adrian said the raid was conducted on Friday night (24/4). To date, examinations are still ongoing for the 30 individuals.
“Alhamdulillah, yesterday we secured around 30 people,” Adrian told reporters on Saturday (25/4/2025).
Adrian explained that those secured range from caregivers, foundation leaders, to one security officer.
“From last night until this moment, in-depth examinations are still being conducted by the Child Protection Unit,” he clarified.