USU PUBLIC RELATIONS – The Faculty of Social and Political Sciences (FISIP) of Universitas Sumatera Utara (USU) officially opened its 46th Anniversary celebration on Thursday (October 22, 2026), at the FISIP USU Auditorium. Carrying the theme “Connecting Knowledge, Society, and Change,” the celebration served as a momentum to strengthen the relationship between the development of knowledge, societal needs, and social change.

(Photo: Amri Affandi Simatupang)

In his remarks, USU Rector Prof. Dr. Muryanto Amin, S.Sos., M.Si., emphasized the important role of social and political sciences in addressing various issues faced by society. He stressed that knowledge must provide tangible benefits rather than merely develop within academic circles.

“Knowledge must reach real life, understand the challenges faced by society, and provide meaningful solutions,” he said.

He also encouraged FISIP USU to strengthen the quality of its research, collaboration with communities, and international partnerships. He welcomed the collaboration with the Centre for Islamic Development Management Studies, Universiti Sains Malaysia, which is expected to be realized through various academic programs and joint research initiatives.

“We hope this collaboration will not stop at the signing of documents, but continue into concrete programs that provide benefits to both institutions,” he said.

Dean of FISIP USU Dr. Hatta Ridho, S.Sos., M.SP., outlined several achievements by the faculty in improving academic quality and the competitiveness of its Study Programs. He noted that five Study Programs had obtained international accreditation as part of efforts to strengthen FISIP USU’s reputation.

“Five of them have obtained international accreditation, namely Communication Science, Sociology, Social Welfare, Social Anthropology, and Political Science,” he explained.

(Photo: Amri Affandi Simatupang)

He added that academic achievements need to be accompanied by the academic community’s concern for issues affecting society. He also encouraged students to participate in research and learning innovation so that the knowledge they acquire can have a broader impact.

“Everyone in the academic community—the university leadership, lecturers, staff, and students—must continue to care so that what we do at this university, including the tridharma of higher education, can have an impact on society,” he added.

Chair of the FISIP USU 46th Anniversary Committee, Dr. Tonny P. Situmorang, M.Si., stated that the anniversary activities would take place from October 22 to November 14, 2026. Various academic activities and discussions have been prepared to address national and local issues while encouraging FISIP USU to contribute to society.

“We discuss all kinds of national and local issues in order to achieve the vision we have established together,” he said.

Through the celebration of its 46th Anniversary, FISIP USU is expected to further strengthen the quality of education, research, and collaboration with society. The spirit of “Connecting Knowledge, Society, and Change” serves as a reminder that the development of knowledge must go hand in hand with social awareness and tangible contributions to positive change.