HUMAS FAHUTAN - As part of its commitment to strengthening governance and accountability in financial management across Universitas Sumatera Utara (USU), the USU Directorate of Finance conducted a coordination and financial management assistance program at the Faculty of Forestry on Tuesday (30/6/2026).

The visit was led by the Director of Finance of Universitas Sumatera Utara, Marthin Luther Tarigan, S.T., accompanied by officials from the USU Directorate of Finance. The delegation was warmly welcomed by the Dean of the Faculty of Forestry, Prof. Arida Susilowati, together with the Vice Dean I, Dr. Ir. Tito Sucipto, S.Hut., M.Si., IPU., ASEAN Eng., Vice Dean II, Dr. Luthfi Hakim, S.Hut., M.Si., and Vice Dean III, Dr. Anita Zaitunah, S.Hut., M.Sc.

Also attending the meeting were the Head of the Human Resources and Finance Subdivision of the Faculty of Forestry, Mayanti Jumiahari Harahap, along with all finance staff members who play an active role in managing the faculty's administrative and financial operations. This coordination and assistance program forms part of the Directorate of Finance's ongoing initiative to ensure that financial management across all university work units is carried out effectively, transparently, accountably, and in accordance with applicable regulations and institutional policies. In addition to serving as an evaluation forum, the meeting also provided an opportunity for discussion to establish a shared understanding in addressing various financial management challenges within the university.

During the meeting, the Directorate of Finance shared several strategic updates of common interest, including information regarding the Single Tuition Fee (UKT). It was announced that the UKT review process is scheduled to begin in August 2026 in accordance with the procedures established by the university.

The discussion also covered alternative measures that may be taken when a student's request for a UKT reduction cannot be approved. As an alternative solution, students will be encouraged to apply for various scholarship programs available through Universitas Sumatera Utara and its partner institutions, ensuring continued financial support for their studies.

Through this coordination and assistance program, it is expected that stronger synergy will be established between the Directorate of Finance and all work units within Universitas Sumatera Utara, including the Faculty of Forestry, in developing a professional, transparent, accountable, and service-oriented financial management system that enhances the quality of services provided to the university community.

To conclude the program, all participants attended a luncheon hosted by the Faculty of Forestry, Universitas Sumatera Utara. Traditional Karo cuisine was served as a symbol of the faculty's warm hospitality while fostering closer relationships between the Directorate of Finance and the academic community of the Faculty of Forestry. This atmosphere of collegiality is expected to further strengthen collaboration and effective communication in supporting professional, transparent, and sustainable financial governance across Universitas Sumatera Utara.

This coordination and financial management assistance program supports the achievement of SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions) by strengthening effective, transparent, and accountable institutional governance in higher education financial management. Furthermore, discussions on the UKT review process and expanding access to scholarships contribute to SDG 4 (Quality Education) by promoting inclusive, equitable, and high-quality access to higher education for all students.