Universitas Sumatera Utara (USU) continues to improve in its efforts to internationalize the campus. As is known, campus internationalization is the main target launched by the USU Chancellor, Dr Muryanto Amin, S.Sos, M.Si., in the 2021-2026 period. To achieve this, he carries the tagline "Transformation Towards Ultimate".
The Rector emphasized that in the future USU must become an international standard university characterized by local excellence. This is in accordance with USU's vision, which is to become a university that has academic excellence as a barometer of scientific progress that is able to compete in the global world level. This transformation is based on three main pillars, namely:
Academic Excellence
USU implements the Kampus Merdeka program to provide innovative learning experiences, such as internships, research, and cross-disciplinary collaboration, to produce graduates who are adaptive and globally competitive.
Innovative Research
By focusing on locally and globally relevant multidisciplinary research, USU strengthens international cooperation and increases the contribution of scientific publications in the fields of health, forestry and other sciences.
Sustainable Community Service
USU actively develops community-based programs, such as assisted villages and the application of appropriate technology, to support sustainable development and improve welfare.
Transformation Towards the Ultimate Implementation

Transforming Plastic Waste into Energy: Pyrolisis Innovation from Indonesian Scientists
Researchers from Universitas Sumatera Utara and Universitas Muhammadiyah Sumatera Utara developed pyrolysis technology to convert plastic waste into alternative fuel. By simulating optimal temperatures and testing engine performance, this study offers an eco-friendly solution to waste and energy challenges.

YIAK Opens Scholarship for Final Year Students at USU
In 2023, the YIAK scholarship program was implemented, and it is hoped that this year more alumni will contribute to the endowment so that more students will receive financial assistance for their education," added Rahma in her interview.

USU and Malaysian Universities Collaborate on Geopark Tourism Development Research
"One of our partner universities, Chulalongkorn University in Bangkok, Thailand, could not join us this time. However, they are expected to participate in future research activities," Prof. Agus added.

UiTM-USU International Community Service held in Hariara Samosir Village
The activity began with a visit to the Universitas Sumatera Utara and a sharing session on November 18, 2025. The session discussed various interesting issues, such as leadership knowledge, students' affairs and clubs/activities management system, high-impact programs, and long-term collaboration.

Soedjai Kartasasmita Awarded Honorary Doctorate by USU
This award is part of USU's tradition to honor individuals who have made significant contributions to society and science. Soedjai Kartasasmita is the third person to receive an honorary doctorate.

Release of USU's Batch 4 Year 2024 PMM Inbound Students
This program is a very important part of the experience for you to dare to leave your home city, and 5 months is a short time for us, and we hope this brings lessons for the exchange students currently at USU," said the USU PMM Coordinator.
Future Vision
Becoming a Center of Academic Excellence
USU focuses on enhancing the quality of education through curriculum innovations that support multidisciplinary learning and hands-on experiences, in line with the Kampus Merdeka principles.
Digital Transformation for a Sustainable Campus
USU strengthens digital transformation through USU One Data, creating an efficient, integrated, and inclusive campus ecosystem. This step ensures transparency and sustainability in governance.
Driving Sustainable Development
Through community service programs, such as fostering model villages and applying appropriate technologies, USU aims to be a driver of change empowering local communities.
Promoting Globally Relevant Research and Innovation
USU will continue to advance research contributing to global issues such as climate change, public health, and sustainable technologies. Collaboration with national and international institutions is a key component.
Global Collaboration and Campus Internationalization
USU continues to expand its international network through partnerships with global universities and institutions, including organizing student exchange programs and cross-cultural research.