Medan, August 12, 2026 – The Faculty of Vocational Education, Universitas Sumatera Utara (USU), enthusiastically welcomed new students for the 2026/2027 Academic Year through the 2026 Introduction to Campus Life for New Students (PKKMB). The first day of PKKMB was held in a lively and spirited atmosphere on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, beginning with the university-level PKKMB opening ceremony at the USU Twin Fields.

The opening ceremony of USU PKKMB was officially conducted by the Rector of Universitas Sumatera Utara, Prof. Dr. Muryanto Amin, S.Sos., M.Si. The event was attended by 8,360 new USU students, including 1,045 new students from the Faculty of Vocational Education. In his speech, the Rector emphasized the importance of communication skills as one of the key factors for achieving success, both in pursuing a career and in conveying ideas and thoughts to others.

This message served as an important foundation for new students as they began their academic journey in higher education. Communication skills, critical thinking, teamwork, and the ability to articulate ideas are competencies that students need to continuously develop throughout their university experience. Following the university-level PKKMB opening ceremony at the USU Twin Fields, new students from the Faculty of Vocational Education returned to the USU Auditorium to continue the faculty-level PKKMB activities. The program featured various sessions designed to provide new students with an understanding of the academic environment, leadership, character development, and the challenges of higher education in the era of digital transformation.

The activities began with remarks from the Chair of the Faculty of Vocational Education PKKMB Committee, Asima Manurung, S.Si., M.Si., who provided guidance and motivation to new students to actively participate in all PKKMB activities.

This was followed by remarks and a presentation from the Dean of the Faculty of Vocational Education, Prof. Dr. Isfenti Sadalia, S.E., M.E., who introduced the faculty and highlighted its achievements. On this occasion, new students were introduced to the environment and development direction of the Faculty of Vocational Education as part of USU.

The program continued with an introduction to the faculty leadership, as well as the heads and lecturers of the study programs, allowing new students to become more familiar with the leadership structure and the study programs that will form their academic environment throughout their education at the Faculty of Vocational Education.

To broaden students’ perspectives, the first day of PKKMB also featured several speakers presenting topics relevant to student life and the development of higher education. The first session, titled “National Character, Global Leadership, and National Defense Awareness,” was delivered by Drs. Gustanto, M.Hum. The session strengthened students’ understanding of the importance of national character, leadership, and their role as members of the nation’s future generation.

Next, Dr. Drs. Henry Sitorus, M.Si. delivered Material II, “Transformation of the Higher Education System in the 21st Century.” The session encouraged students to understand changes and developments in higher education systems, as well as the competencies they need to prepare for future challenges.

The third session, “Transformation of Higher Education in the Digital Era & Society 5.0,” was delivered by Ir. Ferry Rahmat Astianta Bukit, S.T., M.T., IPM. Students were introduced to various changes driven by technological developments and the importance of adaptability amid digital transformation.

Meanwhile, Material IV, “Strengthening the Character of Outstanding Students,” was delivered by Dr. Solahuddin Nasution, S.E., M.SP. The session emphasized the importance of developing strong character as part of students’ efforts to maximize their academic and non-academic potential.

The PKKMB atmosphere became even more vibrant with entertainment segments incorporated between the sessions. These activities created a more interactive and enjoyable atmosphere for students after participating in the series of learning sessions.

Through the first day of PKKMB 2026, the Faculty of Vocational Education, USU, not only introduced new students to the academic environment but also equipped them with character development, national insight, leadership skills, communication competencies, and readiness to face transformations in education and technology.

With the enthusiasm demonstrated on the first day, the 1,045 new students of the Faculty of Vocational Education, USU, are expected to begin their academic journey with confidence, actively contribute to the university community, and continuously develop their competencies to become outstanding vocational graduates who are ready to enter the workforce.