USU PR – In a significant step towards fostering international ties, Universitas Sumatera Utara (USU) has initiated discussions with the Palestinian Ambassador to Indonesia, H.E. Dr. Zuhair, M.S Al Shun. The meeting, held in the Rector's Audience Room at the Central Administration Office Building of USU on Thursday (Jan. 18, 2024), primarily focused on collaborations in education and research.

Prof. Dr. Eng. Himsar Ambarita, S.T., M.T., representing USU's Rector, Prof. Dr. Muryanto Amin, S.Sos., M.Si, shared insights from the meeting. The Palestinian Ambassador provided updates on the current situation in Palestine, and a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed, creating opportunities for Palestinian students to study at USU.

"We warmly welcome this visit as a form of support for Palestine," stated Prof. Himsar. Further details on the admission process for Palestinian students will be outlined by a dedicated team. The team will plan specific courses based on the needs and interests of Palestinian students, with discussions on quotas as part of the ongoing collaboration.

Prof. Himsar emphasized that these steps signify concrete efforts to strengthen bilateral cooperation between USU and Palestine. The implementation of the MoU will involve various stakeholders, ensuring the sustainability and success of educational collaboration between the two countries.

Regarding the timeline for MoU implementation, Prof. Himsar mentioned that it's yet to be determined. However, the Palestinian Ambassador explicitly expressed that the timing would be discussed further. These measures aim to streamline cooperation between the two parties as swiftly as possible.

"While we cannot initiate guest lectures at the moment, the visit of the Palestinian Ambassador is seen as an opportunity to provide broader learning opportunities for Palestinian students at USU," Prof. Himsar stated. He also highlighted USU's internationalization activities that can be utilized to build relationships with Palestinian universities.

In addressing potential administrative delays, Prof. Himsar mentioned that USU Rector has proposed the creation of special passports for Palestinian students studying at USU. These initiatives reflect a commitment to overcoming obstacles and ensuring the success of the collaboration