USK Sends Off Participants for 2025 International Service-Learning Program in Sabang
Universitas Syiah Kuala (USK) officially launched the International Service Learning (ISL) 2025 program on Sunday, 15 June 2025 at the VIP Room of the AAC Dayan Dawood Building. The program brings together 50 students from diverse academic and cultural backgrounds representing four universities: Universitas Syiah Kuala (USK), Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), Universitas Teuku Umar (UTU), and Universitas Tadulako (UNTAD).
Scheduled to take place in Sabang, Aceh from 14–20 June 2025, the ISL 2025 program is a collaborative community engagement initiative that combines academic learning with practical field experience. It is designed to foster cross-cultural collaboration and strengthen regional partnerships, while enabling students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings.
The event was officiated by USK Vice Rector, Prof. Dr. Ir. Agussabti, M.Sc., who emphasized the importance of unity and mutual support among participants from different regions and backgrounds.
“Students in this program come from a range of cultural and academic environments. I encourage all participants to help one another, form strong bonds, and work together as one,” Prof. Agussabti stated in his remarks. He also reminded students to respect local customs and cultural norms while engaging with the Sabang community.
Over the course of the week, students will carry out five community service modules, (1) Basic health screening for coastal residents, (2) Educational outreach on installing portable solar chargers, (3) Training in fundamental rehabilitation skills, (4) Digital content development and marketing strategies, and (5) Education on electrical safety and home appliance maintenance.
Representing UTM, Associate Professor Dr. Mahyudin bin Arsat expressed optimism about the program’s outcomes. “We hope this initiative delivers a meaningful impact for the local community and offers valuable experiences for all participating students,” he said during the opening ceremony.
The event was also attended by a number of academic leaders and institutional representatives, including, Prof. Dr. Mudatsir, Head of USK’s Institute for Research and Community Service (LPPM), Dr. Dra. Sulastri, M.Si., Vice Head of LPPM for Community Service, Drs. Zulfitri, Head of the Center for KKN Development and Implementation, Ria Ervilita, M.Sc., Manager of the Office of International Affairs, USK, Dr. Mohd Akhmal bin Muhammad Sidek, Administrator at the Undergraduate School, UTM, Dr. Ir. Irwansyah, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, UTU, Adib, B.Sc., M.T., Vice Dean III, UTU, Ir. Azwanda, Lecturer, UTU, Ir. Rizana Fauzi, Delegate from UNTAD, and along with university staff members.
The ISL 2025 program stands as a testament to the power of academic cooperation across borders, aiming to cultivate globally minded leaders and contribute to sustainable community development in the region.
