HUMAS FAHUTAN - In addition to assisting with the development of herbal products based on local wisdom, the Faculty of Forestry, Universitas Sumatera Utara (USU), also provided the community of Namo Sialang Village, Batang Serangan District, Langkat Regency, with training on digital marketing strategies on Saturday, 4 July 2026. The activity was part of a community service program aimed at strengthening the capacity of local entrepreneurs to utilize digital technology in expanding the market reach of their products.
The program was attended by the Dean of the Faculty of Forestry USU, Prof. Dr. Arida Susilowati, S.Hut., M.Si., together with the faculty's leadership, heads and secretaries of study programs, and several lecturers from the Faculty of Forestry USU. Also present were Jamaluddin, Head of the Tangkahan Resort, and Joni Rahmad, Tangkahan Resort Officer, as a demonstration of their support for strengthening the capacity of communities living around forest areas. The training participants consisted of members of the women's group from Namo Sialang Village, led by Mrs. Irni, who manages the Nandeta Sembur Pratahi Herbal Tea business.
During the training session, the Faculty of Forestry USU team delivered materials highlighting the importance of digital marketing as a business development strategy in the era of technological transformation. Participants were introduced to various internet-based promotional tools, ranging from social media platforms to other digital channels that can be used to promote products to a broader consumer base.
Through the training, participants gained a deeper understanding that the success of a product depends not only on its quality but also on the ability of business owners to build effective communication with consumers through digital media. The utilization of information technology is expected to help rural entrepreneurs increase product visibility, expand market access, and create greater economic opportunities.
For the Nandeta Sembur Pratahi business group, digital marketing knowledge has become an essential foundation for sustainable business growth. By making effective use of digital platforms, their locally inspired herbal products have greater potential to reach wider markets while strengthening their competitiveness in an increasingly competitive business environment.
Through this initiative, the Faculty of Forestry, Universitas Sumatera Utara, reaffirmed its commitment to supporting community empowerment by enhancing the capacity of entrepreneurs who develop businesses based on local wisdom. The digital marketing training is expected to help community members grow their businesses independently, broaden market access, and increase the economic value of their herbal products.
The program also aligns with Universitas Sumatera Utara's commitment to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The digital marketing training contributes to SDG 1 (No Poverty) by strengthening community capacity to develop businesses that have the potential to improve household economic well-being. It also supports SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) by fostering collaboration among the university, local communities, and the Tangkahan Resort in promoting community empowerment based on local potential and the sustainable preservation of local wisdom.