The Master's Program in Management at the Universitas Sumatera Utara conducted the Exploring Industry Research and Innovation program through an academic visit to the Rubber Research Institute of Vietnam. This activity was part of an international program series designed to provide participants with direct learning experiences in research, innovation, and industrial development.
During the visit, participants gained insights into the role of research institutions in supporting innovation, technological development, and industrial competitiveness. The activity also provided students with opportunities to understand how research outcomes can be implemented in industrial practices and create added value for business development. Through discussions and presentations, participants gained a deeper understanding of the importance of synergy between academia, research institutions, and industry in developing relevant solutions to address various global challenges.
This activity also contributed to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 – Quality Education, by providing contextual and globally oriented learning experiences. The academic visit served as a platform for students to broaden their perspectives while enhancing their critical and analytical thinking skills in understanding international research and innovation developments.
Furthermore, the program aligned with SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure by promoting awareness of the role of research and technological development in improving industrial productivity, efficiency, and competitiveness. Through exposure to innovation practices implemented by international research institutions, students were encouraged to identify opportunities for developing and applying innovations that can contribute to business and industrial advancement in Indonesia.
In addition, the implementation of this international program reflected a commitment to SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals. Cross-border academic collaboration serves as a strategic approach to strengthening international networks, encouraging knowledge exchange, and creating opportunities for sustainable partnerships between higher education institutions and research organizations. These strengthened partnerships are expected to generate broader benefits in the areas of education, research, and innovation with positive impacts on society.
Through this initiative, the Master's Program in Management at the Universitas Sumatera Utara continues to promote international collaboration and enhance students’ competencies through contextual academic experiences. Similar programs are expected to be conducted continuously to broaden global perspectives, improve analytical capabilities, and prepare adaptive and innovative graduates who are capable of contributing to business and industrial development at the international level while supporting sustainable development.