HUMAS USU – The Faculty of Agriculture at Universitas Sumatera Utara (USU) officially launched *The 3rd Talenta Agricultural Summer Course 2025*, carrying the theme *“Promoting Sustainable Agriculture to Ensure Food Security in the Face of Climate Change.”* The program took place at the DH Penny Agriculture Building on Tuesday (9/8/2025).

This international-scale event was attended by 228 participants from 9 countries—Indonesia, Bangladesh, Malaysia, Pakistan, Myanmar, Cambodia, Yemen, Sudan, Thailand, and Nigeria. The hybrid summer course, held from 8–12 September 2025, combines public lectures with field visits. This year, the program was coordinated by the Agrotechnology and Food Technology Study Programs of the Faculty of Agriculture, USU.

Chair of the Committee, Prof. Dr. Ir. Elisa Julianti, M.Si., stated in her opening remarks that this event serves as a platform for students to broaden their understanding of global issues in agriculture and food technology.

“This program not only enriches insights into agricultural theory, but also fosters awareness of global issues such as community welfare, food security, and sustainability,” she said.

The lecture series will run for two days (8–9 September), featuring 19 international speakers from various institutions, including Socfin Group, Pachira Group, Dongguk University (South Korea), Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), and the University of Rajashi (Bangladesh). Topics to be discussed include agricultural product innovation, the use of Black Soldier Flies for waste conversion, Integrated Pest Management (IPM), and the role of green banking in sustainable development.

Following the academic sessions, participants will join field activities (10–12 September), such as industry visits and community service projects. Several locations to be visited include PT. Kreasi Lutvi Sejahtera (cassava processing industry), PT. Bibit Baru (passion fruit processing), Aguan Tofu Mill, and Brastagi Fruit Market. The program will conclude with cultural performances from each participating country.

Head of the Agrotechnology Study Program, Dr. Nini Rahmawati, SP., M.Si., emphasized that the program is not merely ceremonial but is aimed at building long-term research collaborations. For the first time, the summer course will also include community service activities, ensuring that the benefits are felt directly by local partners.

“We hope that this program will lead to real academic collaboration and research. In fact, tomorrow an Implementation Agreement will be signed with the universities represented by the speakers,” she explained.

This program also supports the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in the areas of food security and sustainability. Participants will gain multiple benefits, including credit recognition equivalent to 2 SKS, e-certificates, field visit experiences, and opportunities to expand their international networks.