USU PR- The Office of Public Relations, Promotion, and Protocol of the Universitas Sumatera Utara (USU) held a Gathering with Journalist Alumni themed "Good Relation, Ultimate Reputation" at Sajian Bhinneka Medan on Thursday (12/28/2023).

This gathering, which also served as a meet-and-greet and lunch, aimed to strengthen the relationship between alumni and their alma mater. In this regard, USU collaborated with alumni working in journalism to exchange opinions and thoughts about media developments.

USU Rector, Prof. Dr. Muryanto Amin, S.Sos., M.Si., stated that he would invite alumni to establish a press institution for journalists, where this institution would discuss the improvement of skills in journalism.

“To support the creation of a competency testing institution. It's one of the ideas we can pursue. From that institution, I believe we can also provide abilities such as short classes needed for journalist colleagues, especially media peers, related to improving skills and understanding current developments,” explained Prof. Mury.

The USU Rector also mentioned that nowadays, people are more often accessing information through social media and websites, making USU a transparent source for the public.

"It turns out that Gen Z gets news from the web and online sources. Therefore, the pattern format for these university students is very important due to changes," he added.

Nirwan Sukartara, S.H., M.Kn., one of the USU alumni from Harian Analisa, highly appreciated the event because, through USU Public Relations, they could accommodate alumni who became journalists. This event also provided an opportunity to give input on establishing an institution in journalism.

"An institution, for example, can enhance the competence of journalists in North Sumatra. So, from its enthusiasts, these USU alumni journalists can create comprehensive movements or contribute through activities such as training or collaborations in other areas," he expressed.

In line with that, Jonris Purba, S.Sos., from Republik Merdeka Online, also appreciated and strongly supported the collaboration between journalists and USU in information development, allowing the public to access that information.

"And I think it's because of his openness to his willingness to embrace all groups, including journalists. Perhaps, in quotation marks, journalists so far have been perceived by many as not needing to be associated, but it turns out he understands the importance of journalists as individuals who are always involved in information for the progress of USU," he said.