The audience was opened by the Cooperation Manager of USU’s Directorate of Internationalization and Global Partnerships, Arida Susilowati, and was attended by USU’s Internationalization Manager, Dewi Masyithah Darlan. Representing PT Agrinas Palma Nusantara Persero were Zulham S. Koto, Director of Research and Sustainability, and Nur Amalia Agus, Head of the Research & Industrial HUU Division of PT APN.
During the discussion, both parties explored potential collaborations that could be developed in a concrete and sustainable manner. One of the main points highlighted by PT APN was the company’s commitment to developing initiatives based on local wisdom, which was considered highly relevant to USU’s academic strengths and research capabilities.
Prof. Arida Susilowati stated that USU warmly welcomes collaboration initiatives oriented toward strengthening research and delivering tangible contributions to society. She emphasized that partnerships with the industrial sector should be directed toward the comprehensive implementation of the Tri Dharma of Higher Education.
“USU is open to collaborations that do not merely stop at the signing of documents, but are truly realized through impactful research, education, and community service programs. The development of local wisdom is one of the strategic potentials that we can jointly cultivate,” she remarked.
Meanwhile, PT APN’s Director of Research and Sustainability, Zulham S. Koto, expressed that his party views USU as an academic partner with strong human resources and adequate research infrastructure to support the development of innovation based on regional potential.
“We aim to collaborate with USU in developing research rooted in local wisdom and oriented toward sustainability. This collaboration is expected to provide benefits not only for the company, but also for the community and the academic world,” he stated.
In addition, both parties plan to hold a follow-up meeting with the Rector of USU to discuss the strategic direction and scope of cooperation in a more comprehensive manner.
The discussion also touched on the possibility of developing applied research programs, enhancing human resource capacity, and creating opportunities for lecturers and students to be involved in research and community service activities that are integrated with industry needs.