Tag: Universitas Sumatera Utara

The Faculty of Social and Political Sciences at Universitas Sumatera Utara (USU) advances its commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals through Sesama Project, a student initiative focused on strengthening mental health awareness among young people. The program supports SDG 3 on good health and well-being and SDG 4 on quality education by encouraging self-awareness, empathy, and personal development through experiential learning.

Mental health remains a pressing issue as data from the World Health Organization and Indonesia’s Basic Health Research (RISKESDAS) show a steady increase in depression and anxiety cases. In response, students from the Department of Communication Science, FISIP USU, created Sesama Project to inspire youth to practice self-love as a foundation for maintaining mental balance and spreading positivity within their communities.

The activities were conducted at Car Free Day Medan on September 21 and at the FISIP USU campus on September 29, supported by DiscoverMe and CIMSA Faculty of Medicine USU. The campaign featured interactive experiences such as free psychological consultations, a confession box for emotional expression, and reflective games promoting self-acceptance and social connection.

By transforming mental health discussions into accessible and engaging public activities, Sesama Project bridges academic knowledge with social impact. It emphasizes that self-love is not only a personal mindset but also a collective practice contributing to inclusive mental well-being.

The initiative cultivated a supportive environment that empowered participants to share openly, recognize their worth, and connect with others facing similar struggles. This engagement strengthened solidarity among young people while aligning with national and global efforts to promote mental resilience and reduce stigma surrounding psychological issues.

Through Sesama Project, students of FISIP USU reaffirm their role as changemakers who integrate communication science with social responsibility. The program exemplifies the university’s ongoing contribution to the SDGs by fostering healthier communities, empowering youth leadership, and embedding compassion and self-awareness into the broader pursuit of sustainable development.

Inside a journalism classroom at the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, Universitas Sumatera Utara (FISIP USU), only four seats are filled for the 2023 journalism cohort. In 2022 there were nine, and two years before that, eighteen. These steadily shrinking numbers seem to hold a bigger question: why are fewer young people choosing to study journalism, at a time when the world arguably needs credible information and professional journalists more than ever?

For many students, choosing journalism feels like choosing a lonely road. One journalism student shared that she often has to answer questions like, “Why bother becoming a journalist when everyone can make news on social media?” Most of her classmates opt for public relations or advertising—paths seen as more “secure” career-wise.

“I still believe journalism matters, but honestly, the idea of becoming a journalist scares me a bit. The pay is low, the risks are high, and even my parents asked me to reconsider,” she said.

This worry is not unique to Universitas Sumatera Utara (USU). Across campuses in Indonesia, the number of students majoring or concentrating in journalism continues to fall. Antara News (2023) reported that several major universities now have fewer than ten journalism students per cohort. The trend isn’t exclusive to Indonesia either: a Pew Research Center survey (2022) in the United States found that 72% of young people prefer jobs in digital creative industries over traditional newsrooms.

The Era of Disruption and a Shaken Media Industry

The media industry itself is in turmoil. Print advertising revenue keeps plummeting, while online outlets compete fiercely with social media algorithms. Many newsrooms have downsized; some have shut their doors entirely.

Meanwhile, the content creator profession appears far more promising: higher potential income, flexible hours, easier visibility. It’s no surprise that many young people are reconsidering their options.

A Paradox: Needed, Yet Abandoned

And yet, in this age of information overload, journalism’s role is more vital than ever. The World Press Freedom Index 2024 emphasizes that democracy cannot survive without free and high-quality journalism.

“Journalistic ethics are our foundation. They guide journalists in the field to produce accurate, balanced reporting that does not harm others,” said Adi Warsidi, a member of AJI Indonesia, as quoted by WASPADA during a journalist consolidation event in Bireuen.

Non-Journalism Students’ Perspectives

Views on journalism aren’t exclusive to communication students. Rezkina, a non-journalism student at USU, said she chose public relations over journalism.

“In my opinion, public relations has better career prospects. I also like that I can get involved directly in various field activities. Journalism feels narrower, like it’s only tied to media. But I know some journalism graduates who ended up working in PR because the skills are still related,” she explained.

Still, she added that both journalism and PR have potential—she simply sees PR as more promising.

Journalism Students: Holding On to Idealism

Zahra, a journalism student at USU, admits her choice wasn’t free of doubts. “From the start, I felt journalism suited my abilities. I already imagined how closely this major is tied to the world of reporting,” she said.

The challenge, she noted, is the intense competition—especially in a tech-driven era. “Now anyone can spread ‘news’, even without learning ethics. But that’s exactly where our value lies. We can tell which reports are real and which are just sensational. That’s why journalists are still needed.”

For Zahra, technology may enable “instant journalists,” but people will still seek information from credible sources. “Compared to people who just make things up, journalism graduates are far more trusted. So I believe journalism will keep its strategic place.”

Meanwhile, Haninah chose journalism because of her love for writing, a passion honed through student press activities.

“For me, journalism isn’t just a profession—it’s a moral responsibility. We have to be brave, sensitive, and committed to ethics. The challenge isn’t only technical; it’s about staying honest when so many interests are at play,” she said.

Her biggest realization came during her internship. “There were so many things I hadn’t understood before. Journalism taught me to appreciate life more, to be more inclusive. I hope I can become a bridge between people through the information I deliver.”

But Haninah also stressed that the sustainability of this profession can’t rely solely on student idealism. “The government must create safe spaces for journalists, and the public must stop normalizing bribery. Everyone has a role if we want journalism to survive.”

Relevance That Never Fades

Even as students turn away from it, journalism remains the backbone of communication studies. Without basic journalistic skills—accurate writing, research, critical interviewing, and data processing—communication would lose its depth. Even new professions like content strategists or social media managers rely on the same fundamentals.

In this post-truth era, professional journalists are increasingly essential. They are the ones who can verify facts, distinguish opinion from information, and maintain a healthy public sphere. As Bill Kovach and Tom Rosenstiel wrote in their classic book The Elements of Journalism: “Journalism’s first obligation is to the truth.”

The Future: Survive or Transform?

The question is: will journalism remain relevant? The answer depends on how well journalism education adapts. If universities continue to innovate—integrating technology, creating collaborative spaces with industry, and emphasizing critical thinking—journalism won’t just survive; it will become even more important.

But if journalism is only seen as “a pathway to an empty newsroom,” student interest will keep declining.

Inside that quiet classroom, a handful of students still sit, open their notebooks, and write down their dreams about the future of journalism. Their number may be small, but the role they choose is immense: safeguarding democracy, fighting disinformation, and witnessing history.

In an era where everyone can speak but not everyone can be trusted, journalism may be losing applicants—but it has never lost its relevance.

Students of Communication Science at Universitas Sumatera Utara organized a series of activities consisting of a Focus Group Discussion and Leadership Out Loud on 29th November 2025, highlighting gastrodiplomacy as a medium of cross cultural communication while strengthening student leadership capacity.

The activities explored gastrodiplomacy as a form of international communication that conveys national identity, values, and cultural narratives through food. This theme was considered relevant for Communication students as it demonstrates that messages are not only delivered through spoken or written language, but also through symbols, culture, and shared experiences.

The discussion session, which involved the Consulate General of India in Medan, provided students with direct insights into cross cultural communication from a diplomatic perspective. Through this forum, participants gained a broader understanding of how communication functions as a bridge between nations and cultures, fostering mutual understanding and long term relations.

Complementing the discussion, Leadership Out Loud served as a practical space for students to apply communication and leadership values. The activity encouraged participants to make decisions, collaborate in teams, manage group dynamics, and respond to challenges collectively. It emphasized leadership as a skill developed through experience rather than theory alone.

The head of the organizing committee, M Khalish, explained that the program was designed to connect theoretical understanding with real world practice, enabling students to grasp global communication concepts while strengthening leadership and teamwork skills.

The initiative aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 4 on quality education through competency based learning, and SDG 17 on partnerships for the goals by promoting cross institutional and cross cultural collaboration.

Through this program, Communication Science students at Universitas Sumatera Utara are expected to further develop their awareness that communication extends beyond speaking and listening, encompassing understanding, collaboration, and leadership in a global context.

Publishing in a Scopus-indexed journal is widely regarded as one of the highest academic milestones, often achieved only after years of postgraduate study, extensive research experience, and deep immersion in scientific inquiry. For Helen, a graduate of the Faculty of Pharmacy at Universitas Sumatera Utara (USU), this achievement came much earlier than expected. Before completing her bachelor’s degree, she had already authored and co-authored four scientific articles published in reputable Scopus-indexed journals, an accomplishment that sets her apart as a young scholar who entered the global research arena far ahead of her academic stage.

Helen’s journey into the world of international publication began not from an established research background, but from a simple spark of curiosity. In the middle of her undergraduate program, she joined a research project led by her faculty lecturers. The project focused on the exploration of Indonesia’s natural resources and the development of herbal-based pharmaceutical products, an area rich in scientific potential but demanding rigorous methodological precision. What started as a small contribution gradually transformed into a deeper involvement as she proved her dedication and reliability.

Entering a laboratory environment filled with complex procedures and advanced instruments was initially intimidating. Helen had to learn techniques that were entirely new to her, adapt to structured data collection routines, and develop a sharp eye for scientific detail. However, each challenge strengthened her confidence. As her skills grew, so did the responsibilities entrusted to her. She became involved in literature reviews, data processing, and eventually in drafting sections of manuscripts destined for international journals. Her supervisors recognized her commitment and began to place her in more significant roles within ongoing research projects.

The process behind each of her Scopus publications involved intensive collaboration. Academic publishing rarely follows a straight line, and Helen experienced firsthand the non-linear path that every research paper must navigate. Manuscripts underwent multiple cycles of revision, and reviewer comments often required extensive reanalysis or additional experiments. For many young researchers, these critiques may feel discouraging, but Helen approached them as opportunities for growth. Every revision deepened her understanding of academic writing, methodological rigor, and the expectations of international journals.

Throughout her journey, she repeatedly highlighted the importance of strong academic relationships. For Helen, mentorship and professional networks were not supplementary elements of research—they were central. Good communication with lecturers and peers opened doors to opportunities she might otherwise never have encountered. When faculty members trusted her work ethic, they involved her in more advanced studies, expanding both her technical expertise and her exposure to scientific publication. This trust did not develop overnight; it was built through consistency, initiative, and a willingness to contribute whenever needed.

Despite the intensity of her research commitments, Helen did not isolate herself from campus life. She continued to take part in student activities and community initiatives, a balance she believes is vital for maintaining well-being and perspective. Engaging in activities beyond the laboratory kept her grounded and enriched her university experience. Her ability to balance demanding schedules demonstrated that excellence in research does not require sacrificing personal growth, but rather managing time with purpose and intention.

Helen’s four Scopus-indexed publications reflect more than academic competence. They embody her resilience, her willingness to learn from critique, and her belief in collaborative scholarship. Each article draws from Indonesia’s vast natural potential, showcasing how local biodiversity can contribute to global pharmaceutical research. Her achievements also highlight the value of involving undergraduate students in scientific work. Early exposure to research not only strengthens academic skills, but also encourages young scholars to see themselves as contributors to the wider scientific community.

To students who aspire to follow a similar path, Helen offers straightforward advice: start early, seek opportunities, and do not wait for the perfect moment. Progress, she believes, begins with taking the first step, however small. Her journey serves as a reminder that international publication is not an unattainable peak reserved for senior academics. With initiative, mentorship, and consistent effort, undergraduate students can also play a meaningful role in advancing knowledge.

Helen’s accomplishments demonstrate that academic excellence is defined less by age or academic degree and more by determination, curiosity, and openness to learning. Her story illustrates how impactful research begins not with expertise, but with the courage to participate. Through her four Scopus-indexed publications, Helen has shown that young researchers can shape scientific discourse—and that the path to global recognition often begins with a simple willingness to try.

The presence of Assoc. Prof. Dr. Gauri Kopardekar, ICCR Chair Professor from Savitribai Phule Pune University, at the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, Universitas Sumatera Utara (FISIP USU), demonstrates how academic activities can function as effective forms of cultural diplomacy. Her involvement in academic and cultural initiatives has positions the faculty not only as a learning environment, but also as a space for the exchange of meanings, values and perspectives across cultures, strengthening the university’s role in non-state diplomacy grounded in education and culture.

Within Communication Studies, particularly film studies, the activities facilitated by Dr. Kopardekar highlight audiovisual media as a tool for intercultural communication. Film is understood as a social text that represents culture, social relations and universal values; therefore, it can be analyzed critically in line with communication scholarship that views film not merely as entertainment, but as a medium that shapes perception, identity, and social understanding.

Through programs such as the Indian Movie Club, students interpret films through a cultural-communication lens, explore their social contexts, and reflect on parallels with Indonesian society. Post-screening discussions create space for equal intercultural dialogue while supporting the development of media literacy and cross-cultural sensitivity. In this process, cultural diplomacy emerges organically through narrative and visual storytelling, rather than through prescriptive, one-way initiatives. The programme also contributes to broader cultural understanding by preparing students to engage responsibly with global media and cross-cultural dialogue beyond the campus environment.

Reflecting on this approach, Farida Hanim, S.Sos., M.I.Kom., a lecturer in Communication Studies, explains:

“In communication studies, film holds a strategic position as a medium of cultural communication that not only conveys messages, but also shapes how audiences view social reality. Analytical engagement with film is therefore essential for opening dialogue across perspectives and cultivating critical sensitivity to representation, identity and power relations, especially in the context of Indian cinema, which once dominated Indonesian television.”

As ICCR Chair Professor, Dr. Kopardekar brings a cultural mandate that is closely integrated with academic practice. Her dialogic approach positions students as active participants in cultural communication, making the campus a dynamic meeting point of ideas and meanings rather than merely a venue for displaying foreign culture.

These engagements support the internationalisation of FISIP USU by providing contextual and globally oriented learning experiences. Students gain insight into other cultures while also reflecting on their own through the lens of communication and media. Collectively, these initiatives illustrate how cultural diplomacy on campus can be substantive, relevant, and sustainable.

The Faculty of Social and Political Sciences at Universitas Sumatera Utara (FISIP USU) held its Academic Rally to mark the faculty’s 45th anniversary, under the theme “Critical, Creative, Collaborative: Young Leaders for the Nation.” The program brought together students, alumni, and professionals from diverse sectors, encouraging participants to reflect on leadership, resilience, and the role of young people in shaping social change.

The event featured a motivational session with Meutia Yulanda, Mobile Marketing Communications Officer for the Sumatra Area at Telkomsel. She encouraged students to remain persistent and purposeful in their academic journey, stating:

“I hope this event fuels your spirit… never give up and always stay true to your goals and dreams. Study earnestly and meaningfully so you can achieve what you aspire to after graduating from USU.”

Andi Renreng, Marketing Director of Xiaomi Indonesia, shared five professional principles he considers essential for students entering the workforce: aligned communication, purposeful over-communication, sharing information with full context, avoiding assumptions, and acknowledging the contributions of others. He framed these principles as foundations for success in fast-paced, collaborative professional environments.

The programme also welcomed Usman Kansong, Special Staff to the Deputy Speaker of the People’s Consultative Assembly (MPR RI), and Mhd. Fadli, Founder of Satu Atap Communication, who attended on site. Alumni contributors joined virtually, including Doley Tobing, Fashion Stylist, and Iqbal Damanik, Climate & Energy Campaign Manager at Greenpeace Southeast Asia, enabling a dynamic exchange covering marketing, creative media, environmental communication, and public policy.

Throughout the event, students demonstrated strong engagement, actively asking questions and sharing perspectives on how critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration can be applied in real-world contexts. The discussions highlighted the synergy between universities, alumni networks, and professional communities in shaping young leaders who are adaptive, innovative, and socially responsible. This programme also had a tangible impact beyond the classroom, equipping students with skills, perspectives, and professional connections that they can apply in their future careers and wider societal contributions.

Through the Academic Rally, FISIP USU reaffirmed its commitment not only to academic excellence but also to fostering character development, creative capacity, and cross-sector collaboration. The program underscored that Indonesia’s young generation is ready to contribute actively to socio-political development and national transformation.

Faculty of Social and Political Science of Universitas Sumatera Utara (FISIP USU) strengthened its international cultural engagement through a collaboration with the Consulate General of India in Medan. The event featured the screening of the acclaimed Indian film English Vinglish on September 26, 2025, at the FISIP Theater Room, attended by Consul General H.E. Ravi Shanker Goel, Dean of FISIP USU Dr. Hatta Ridho, S.Sos., MSP., and students from the Department of Communication Science.

The activity aimed to introduce students to Indian culture and cinema while fostering a shared appreciation of cultural diversity. The Consul General highlighted that film is not only a medium of entertainment but also a reflection of society, values, and traditions. Through this initiative, the Consulate General of India hopes to build stronger people-to-people ties with Indonesia, especially among young generations who will shape future collaboration between both nations.

The film English Vinglish tells the story of a woman’s determination to overcome language barriers and regain self-confidence by learning English. Its universal message on perseverance, self-respect, and empowerment resonated with students, sparking discussions on cultural identity and personal growth.

The event also served as a platform to promote educational exchange opportunities. The Consul General shared information on scholarship programs provided by the Government of India for Indonesian students pursuing undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral studies. This gesture reflects India’s long-standing commitment to fostering educational cooperation and academic mobility within the region.

FISIP USU and the Consulate General of India plan to continue their collaboration by hosting monthly film screenings featuring Indian cinema throughout the semester. Each screening will highlight a different aspect of India’s culture, society, and creativity, offering students a broader global perspective while enhancing the faculty’s international visibility.

This partnership aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 4 (Quality Education) and Goal 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), by promoting cultural learning and global partnerships. For FISIP USU, such initiatives contribute to building an academic environment that is globally connected, culturally inclusive, and supportive of student growth through meaningful international engagement.

From village fields to international markets, the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences (FISIP) of Universitas Sumatera Utara (USU) is helping coffee farmers in Desa Sinaman II, Sidamanik, Simalungun, improve product quality and expand global opportunities. Despite rich potential in coffee, horticulture, and local crafts, farmers face limited income due to traditional production methods and restricted market access. This initiative showcases how social science knowledge can create tangible community impact.

The program blends hands-on training, technology adoption, and mentoring. Farmers learn Good Agricultural Practices and operate modern equipment, including electric grinders and compact roasters with three-kilogram cooling airflow. These tools are expected to boost daily coffee production from fifty kilograms to between one hundred and one hundred fifty kilograms, while technical and machine handling skills increase by forty to fifty percent.

Business management is strengthened through coaching in financial recording, cost planning, organization, and marketing strategies. Digital marketing, attractive packaging, and identification of local and international markets extend the reach of Sinaman II coffee beyond traditional boundaries.

The initiative is led by M. Muhammad Arifin Nasution, Hatta Ridho, Sri Alem Br. Sembiring, Hafizhah Salsabila Harahap, and Nuri Jannaturrahmi Tambusai, with Desa Sinaman II as the main partner and technical support from the Tebing Tinggi Agriculture Department. Running from April to November, the project aims to increase farmers’ income, enhance product quality, and strengthen global competitiveness.

The program contributes directly to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, supporting poverty reduction (SDG 1) through higher income, sustainable agriculture (SDG 2) with improved farming practices, and decent work and economic growth (SDG 8) via entrepreneurial skills and market expansion. By integrating these goals, the project fosters social, economic, and environmental sustainability.

For the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences Universitas Sumatera Utara, the program highlights the application of academic knowledge in real-world community development. Students gain practical experience, leadership skills, and opportunities to implement theory, bridging education with meaningful social impact. This initiative sets a model for sustainable development while helping Sinaman II coffee farmers thrive in global markets.

The Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, Universitas Sumatera Utara (FISIP USU), hosted a meeting of the Civil Society Coalition in Medan, bringing together 18 organizations committed to advancing restorative justice in narcotics-related cases. The forum underlined that collaboration among universities, professional associations, and grassroots organizations can create more humane and effective alternatives to punitive approaches.

The event was organized in partnership with the Indonesian Addiction Counselors Association (IKAI) North Sumatra, Yayasan Karisma, Yayasan Galatea, and the Social Welfare Study Program of FISIP USU, with support from the Elton John AIDS Foundation. A wide range of organizations including LBH Medan, PUSAKA Indonesia, Yayasan Medan Plus, and Yayasan Rumah Harapan Sehat took part, reflecting the coalition’s inclusive and diverse character.

Structured around plenary presentations and Focus Group Discussions (FGDs), the forum encouraged participants to exchange insights and develop practical strategies. From these discussions, three main priorities were identified: strengthening the coalition’s institutional capacity, improving documentation of restorative justice practices carried out by the police, and building sustainable advocacy frameworks that ensure long-term collaboration.

One FGD sparked particular interest by proposing the establishment of a Medan City branch of the National Narcotics Agency (BNN). Developed in cooperation with the Medan Regional Research Agency (BRIDA) and FISIP USU, the idea was viewed as an important opportunity to enhance local capacity in addressing narcotics issues through prevention, law enforcement, and rehabilitation programs.

Participants also emphasized that restorative justice should be seen not only as a legal mechanism but also as a pathway to broader social justice. They highlighted that this approach is more effective in repairing relationships between offenders, victims, and communities, while also reducing the recurrence of minor narcotics offenses. Such perspectives demonstrate a growing awareness that justice systems must be adapted to social contexts rather than relying solely on punitive measures.

The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to build stronger, more systematic, and sustainable cooperation between civil society organizations and law enforcement agencies. Participants expressed optimism that the outcomes of this forum will help shape a justice system that is legally sound, socially responsive, and rooted in values of fairness, inclusivity, and humanity.

By positioning restorative justice within both legal and social frameworks, the coalition seeks to advance reforms that not only address narcotics cases more effectively but also strengthen community resilience and compassion in the long run.