24 October 2025
Syafrijal S.Kom
The University of North Sumatra's Institute for the Arts and Culture (LPPM) once again demonstrated its commitment to strengthening networks and collaboration among state universities in the Western Region through active participation in a Focus Group Discussion (FGD) in preparation for the 3rd International Community Service Program (KKNI) in 2026, organized by the Indonesian Institute of Arts and Culture (ISBI) Bandung and Siliwangi University (UNSIL).
The FGD, held at the Gino Feruci Hotel on Jalan Braga, Bandung City, from October 21–23, 2025, was attended by LPPM representatives and Community Service Teams from over 30 state universities, members of the Western Region's BKS-PTN. This FGD served as a strategic forum to discuss the theme, location, implementation timeline, and collaboration schemes and institutional support for the 3rd KKNI in 2026. The LPPM was represented by the Head of LPPM, Syafrijal, S.Kom.
The FGD was also attended by various renowned universities, including Syiah Kuala University (USK), Andalas University (Unand), Sriwijaya University (Unsri), the University of Lampung (Unila), the University of Indonesia (UI), IPB University, and Padjadjaran University (Unpad). The event was officially opened by the Rector of ISBI Bandung, Dr. Retno Dwimarwati, S.Sen., M.Hum., and facilitated by Dr. Ir. Entis Sutisna Halimi, M.Sc., Executive Secretary of the Western Region BKS-PTN.
Through active participation in this FGD, LPPM USU affirmed its position as a pioneering institution in international community service activities. This was evident in the first International Community Service Program, hosted by the globally oriented University of North Sumatra, which actively plays a role in building cross-border community service networks and encouraging technological innovation for the advancement of society.
The FGD resulted in the Pangandaran Regency Government's readiness to host the 2026 International Community Service Program (KKN), initiated by the Western Region Higher Education Cooperation Agency (BKS PT). The program, which will involve 38 Indonesian universities and international students, is expected to provide momentum to strengthen the development of tourist villages and the regional tourism sector.
The FGD discussed plans for the 2026 International Community Service Program, which will involve approximately 200-250 participants. This program is the third International Community Service Program, following a similar event in Lampung. In addition, ISBI Bandung will also conduct regular Community Service Programs with approximately 300 students participating, which will run concurrently in the Pangandaran area.
