Medan, November 20, 2025 - The Applied Bachelor’s Degree Program in Banking and Finance, Faculty of Vocational Education, Universitas Sumatera Utara (USU), held a public lecture entitled “The Inside of Private Equity” in collaboration with Certified Financial Analysts (CFA). The activity took place at Mike Wijaya Hall, FEB USU, and was attended by students, lecturers, the academic community of the Faculty of Vocational Education, as well as guests who wished to broaden their insights into the dynamics of the global investment industry.
The event was opened by Ms. Suci Indah Syafitri, S.E., M.Si. as the Master of Ceremony. The event was also attended by the Head of the DIII Finance & D4 Banking and Finance Study Programs, Ms. Beby Kendida Hasibuan, S.E., M.Si., who expressed full support for the organization of the public lecture as a means of enhancing students’ insights in the fields of finance and investment.
The first welcoming remarks were delivered by the Dean of the Faculty of Vocational Education USU, Prof. Dr. Isfenti Sadalia, S.E., M.E., who emphasized the importance of mastering financial competencies for vocational students. The second remarks were delivered by the Executive Director of Certified Financial Analysis, Mr. Rahmat Sugiono Halim, CFA, who introduced CFA as a global institution in the professional development of the financial sector.
The event then continued with the public lecture featuring Mr. Steve Balaban, an international practitioner and lecturer in the field of private equity. Before entering the main material, a plaque presentation was conducted as a form of appreciation, followed by a group photo session.
In his presentation, Steve Balaban discussed private equity comprehensively, ranging from industry structure, company valuation, portfolio strategy, to global investment trends. With an interactive delivery method, students were invited to understand how private equity plays a role in the modern financial ecosystem.
Participants’ enthusiasm became increasingly evident during the question-and-answer session, where students actively raised questions related to career opportunities in the investment sector, required skills, and the dynamics of developments in the financial industry.
Through this public lecture, we hope that students will be able to broaden their insights, recognize opportunities in the global investment world, and build readiness to face the dynamic financial industry. This activity became an important momentum for vocational students to enhance their competencies, sharpen their perspectives, and prepare themselves as young talents ready to compete.