USU PR – Under the theme “Nurturing Advancements in Engineering for Modern Applications and Humanity,” the Faculty of Engineering (FT) of Universitas Sumatera Utara once again organized The 9th International Conference on Electrical, Telecommunication, and Computer Engineering (ELTICOM) 2025, in collaboration with the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE). The event took place on Thursday (11/6/2025) at the Faculty of Engineering Hall.

This annual international scientific conference serves as an important academic forum that brings together researchers, academics, and practitioners from various countries to share research findings, innovations, and technological developments in the fields of electrical engineering, telecommunications, and computer engineering. The conference was officially opened by the Vice Rector IV of USU, Prof. Dr. Drs. Opim Salim Sitompul, M.Sc., who, in his remarks, expressed appreciation for the successful implementation of the scientific event.

“ELTICOM has become an important academic forum that brings together scientists and engineers from various countries to exchange ideas, research findings, and innovations,” he stated.

He added that USU views ELTICOM as an integral part of the university’s research and innovation ecosystem. Through this conference, it is expected that cross-disciplinary ideas and collaborations will emerge that can make tangible contributions to global issues such as digital transformation, cybersecurity, energy efficiency, and equitable access to technology.

“Through this conference, we hope that various cross-disciplinary ideas and collaborations will emerge to strengthen the university’s contribution in addressing strategic global issues,” explained the Vice Rector IV.

The Dean of the Faculty of Engineering of USU, Prof. Dr. Ir. Fahmi, S.T., M.Sc., IPU., added that this year’s ELTICOM was attended not only by academics but also by participants from industry. The involvement of various stakeholders is expected to strengthen synergy between research outcomes from higher education institutions and the needs of the industrial sector. In this way, the conference can demonstrate the tangible impact of higher education, in line with the ministry’s plans and directives for this conference.

“Through this conference, we aim to disseminate research outcomes so that they can be recognized by the public and industry,” said the Dean.

One of this year’s keynote speakers was Prof. Dr. Jennifer C. Dela Cruz from the University of the Philippines, who delivered a presentation on renewable energy. In an interview, Prof. Jennifer expressed her pride in being able to participate in the conference. She also emphasized the importance for researchers to continuously review existing literature so that their research can address societal needs and avoid duplicating previous studies.

“It is very important for us to read all available literature so that we know what has already been studied,” explained Prof. Jennifer.

This year, ELTICOM was attended by 137 participants from seven countries, with 47 scientific papers accepted for presentation. The paper acceptance rate reached approximately 34.4 percent, indicating a rigorous selection process and high academic standards. Through this conference, participants had the opportunity to exchange information, expand research networks, and strengthen international collaboration in the fields of science and technology.