MEDAN – USU PUBLIC RELATIONS: Universitas Sumatera Utara (USU) held a Sharing Session on Cooperatives and Rural Banks (BPR)/University Financial Institutions at the Digital Learning Center Building (DLCB) USU on Thursday (October 15, 2026).

The activity featured Vice Rector for Human Resources and Finance of Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), Prof. Supriyadi, and Vice Rector for Planning, Finance, and Infrastructure of Universitas Hasanuddin (UNHAS), Prof. Subehan, as speakers.

The forum discussed strengthening the governance of cooperatives and Rural Banks (BPR) as a strategic measure to enhance the financial independence of higher education institutions.

In his presentation, Prof. Supriyadi explained UGM’s experience in managing a BPR, which has been operating since 1994.

“BPR management within a university environment must uphold the principles of transparency, independence, and professionalism. Good governance is key to ensuring the sustainability of financial institutions and preventing conflicts of interest,” he explained.

(Foto: Amri Affandi Simatupang)

He also emphasized the importance of limiting credit facilities and personal benefits for controlling parties and university leaders in order to maintain the integrity of BPR management.

Meanwhile, Prof. Subehan presented Universitas Hasanuddin’s strategy for developing its BPR through acquisition as a more efficient alternative to establishing a new banking institution.

“Universitas Hasanuddin developed its BPR through an acquisition in Malili and subsequently relocated its head office to Makassar. In 2025, we also increased our paid-up capital by IDR 10 billion to strengthen the development of our financial services,” he said.

Furthermore, campus-based BPRs are considered to have significant potential to support academic activities, ranging from research facilities and student internship programs to education financing and capital support for lecturers, educational staff, and MSMEs supported by higher education institutions.

(Photo: Amri Affandi Simatupang)

Through this sharing session, USU gained insights and references on financial institution management practices from UGM and UNHAS as considerations for developing the university’s business units.

The activity is expected to serve as a strategic step toward strengthening institutional governance, optimizing resource potential, and promoting the realization of USU’s professional, transparent, and sustainable financial independence.