Insight from Population Conference at USU

The 1st International Conference on Population and Family Development (ICoPoF) 2026 underscored the critical role of social structures, particularly the family, in sustaining a nation’s future, with a special emphasis on Indonesia. This central theme emerged consistently throughout presentations and discussions during the conference. The event, held at the Universitas Sumatera Utara campus, was attended by more than 100 participants from various academic and professional backgrounds.

One of the participants, Nadya Fortuna Gunawan, a master’s student in anthropology, highlighted the importance of strengthening family institutions. She noted that in Indonesia, where the family remains a central socio-cultural unit, preparing and empowering families is essential for long-term national development. Reflecting on the conference, Nadya emphasized that socio-cultural values should be integrated into government programs aimed at achieving Indonesia Emas 2045. Inspired by the discussions, she expressed her intention to conduct field-based research as part of her academic projects in the anthropology master’s program.

The Master’s Program in Anthropology at Universitas Sumatera Utara, which welcomed its first cohort in 2026, is designed to strengthen research capacity. The program aims to produce graduates who are credible and competent in applying anthropological perspectives to public policy at both national and global levels. In addition to Nadya, the conference was also attended by Dr. Fotarisman Zaluchu, Head of the Master’s Program in Anthropology.