11 November 2025
Threesna Sharfina
As part of its 45th Anniversary celebration, the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences (FISIP) at Universitas Sumatera Utara (USU) held a National Scientific Oration on Saturday, November 8, 2025, at the USU Student Hall. The event served as a moment of reflection on FISIP USU’s four-and-a-half-decade journey in developing social and political sciences that advocate for society and adapt to the challenges of modern times.
The scientific oration featured two distinguished speakers: Meutya Hafid, Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia, and Arifah Fauzi, Minister of Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection of the Republic of Indonesia. In her presentation, Minister Meutya Hafid emphasized the importance of strengthening digital literacy and the critical role of students in preventing digital crimes. She highlighted the pivotal role of universities in shaping a generation that is both wise and critical in utilizing technology.
Meanwhile, Minister Arifah Fauzi underscored the significance of gender equality and inclusive development. She also engaged in an open dialogue with students regarding incidents of violence occurring in campus environments. “Campuses such as FISIP USU play an important role in fostering critical and empathetic thinking. Students here do not only learn theories but also cultivate social awareness that creates real impact in the community,” she stated during an interview.
The event was also attended by Acting Provincial Secretary of North Sumatra Sulaiman Harahap, S.H., M.S.P., CGCAE, Deputy Regent of Serdang Bedagai H. Adlin Umar Yusri Tambunan, S.T., M.S.P., Consulate General of India in Medan, Dr. Hatta Ridho, S.Sos., M.S.P., Dean of FISIP USU, and Prof. Dr. Iskandar Zulkarnain, M.Si., Chair of the 45th Anniversary Committee. In his remarks, Prof. Dr. Muryanto Amin, M.Si., Rector of Universitas Sumatera Utara, expressed appreciation to the entire academic community of FISIP USU for their dedication and contributions. He emphasized the importance of FISIP graduates as agents of change who can make meaningful impacts across various sectors.
As a token of appreciation, both ministers received souvenirs crafted by Yunawidita Candrika Putri, a Communication Science student at FISIP USU, symbolizing the creativity of students in enlivening the anniversary celebration. The event also featured a cultural performance of Tor-Tor Batak Sihutur Sanggul by Sang Dewi Dance Studio, showcasing the richness of local heritage within an academic atmosphere.
FISIP USU continues to demonstrate its commitment to strengthening collaboration between academia, government, and society. The reflection on its 45-year journey is not merely about honoring the past but also about envisioning the future of social and political sciences that remain relevant amid global challenges. Through this scientific oration, FISIP USU reaffirmed its role as a center of thought and development in dynamic social sciences. The event is expected to inspire the academic community to uphold the values of humanity, social justice, and scientific innovation in support of sustainable development in the digital era.
Writer: Jemima Frieda Lumbantobing
