The Universitas Muhammadiyah Sumatera Utara (UMSU) has agreed to establish a cooperation (MoU) with the Langkat Regency Government to advance development in education, research, and community service.
The MoU was signed by UMSU Rector Prof. Dr. Agussani, MAP, and the Regent of Langkat, H. Syah Afandin, S.H., at the Regent’s Official Residence on Jalan Proklamasi, Stabat, Langkat Regency, Thursday (6/11). The event also featured a socialization and gathering session for the organizing committee of the 49th Muhammadiyah–Aisyiyah Congress in North Sumatra, 2027. It was attended by the Chair of PWM North Sumatra, Prof. Dr. H. Hasyimsyah Nasution, M.A., the Chair of PWA North Sumatra Dr. Nur Rahmah Amini, M.Ag., the Chair of UMSU’s Board of Trustees Dr. Bahril Datuk, S.E., M.M., the Chair of PDA Langkat, Kholisani Nasution, as well as faculty leaders and bureau heads of UMSU.
The UMSU delegation was warmly welcomed by Langkat Regent H. Syah Afandin, S.H., along with the Regional Secretary H. Amril, S.Sos., M.AP., the Head of the Inspectorate Drs. Hermansyah, M.IP., the Secretary of Langkat’s DPRD Drs. Basrah Pardomuan, and other regional officials.
The signing of this Memorandum of Understanding—covering education, social development, and human resource enhancement—marks an important milestone in supporting the success of the upcoming Muhammadiyah and Aisyiyah Congress in 2027.
In his remarks, Regent Syah Afandin expressed gratitude and appreciation for the presence of UMSU and the congress committee. He noted that this collaboration is a blessing and a reflection of education’s real contribution to regional development.
Regarding the 49th Muhammadiyah–Aisyiyah Congress scheduled to take place in 2027 at UMSU Campus IV in Desa Saentis, Deli Serdang, the Regent affirmed the full support of the Langkat government, including manpower, tourism promotion, cultural performances, and local MSME empowerment.
“There is so much we can synchronize for this Congress. We want Muhammadiyah cadres in Langkat to take part. We will prepare special booths for Langkat MSMEs—I will personally ensure that, together with the Rector and PWM,” he added.
Concerning the MoU, the Regent emphasized the need for strong commitment in carrying out the agreed collaboration, reminding both parties that cooperation should not stop at ceremonial signing.
“I feel a bit embarrassed with UMSU because we once had an MoU that wasn’t followed up. I want today’s MoU to be more than ceremonial—there must be real commitment. We are proud of UMSU, which has contributed greatly and earned remarkable prestige,” he said.
The Regent further expressed hope that the cooperation would extend to strategic areas such as development consultancy, capacity building for government staff, and opportunities for further education for Langkat employees and residents.
“I hope the Rector can provide input and follow up with programs such as consultancy, advanced study opportunities for our human resources, and more. I want this MoU to be implemented to its fullest,” he said.
UMSU Rector Prof. Agussani expressed appreciation for the warm welcome from the Regent and the Langkat government. He emphasized that synergy between universities and local governments is essential for sustainable human resource development.
“Every year, many students from Langkat choose to study at UMSU. This shows that educational access can be evenly distributed across the districts and cities of North Sumatra,” he added.
The Rector highlighted UMSU’s longstanding community engagement in Langkat through training, mentoring, and social–educational activities in villages.
“We have consistently carried out the university’s three pillars in Langkat. Since 2015, we have been involved in social programs in Jaring Halus Village. Whether requested or not, we will continue serving the community,” he said.
He also cited examples of successful cooperation with other regional governments that could be adopted by Langkat.
“One notable example is the medical faculty scholarship program we established with Rokan Hilir Regency. This is a potential model for collaboration,” he explained.
UMSU, ranked 445th in the QS World University Rankings 2026, also offers RPL classes, PGSD Grant Programs, and Transfer Classes that could benefit the Langkat Regency Government.
The Rector emphasized that Langkat is the first region to receive this socialization and expressed hope for its active participation in supporting the 49th Muhammadiyah–Aisyiyah Congress.
“We expect Langkat’s involvement in ensuring smooth accommodation, transportation, tourism reception, MSME development, and cultural performances,” he said. He added that the Congress could elevate the region’s economic potential and strengthen collaboration.
Previously, the Chair of PWM North Sumatra, Prof. Dr. H. Hasyimsyah Nasution, M.A., stated that hosting the 49th Muhammadiyah and Aisyiyah Congress is strategically important for both the organization and the wider community.
Beyond being a major organizational agenda, the Congress is expected to provide significant economic and social impact for the host region, including Langkat.
“This Congress is also an opportunity for Muhammadiyah to promote tourism, particularly in Langkat, to audiences beyond North Sumatra. We hope the Regent will help spread information and support this important event,” he added.
Through this collaboration, UMSU and the Langkat Regency Government are committed to developing programs in education, research, community service, and economic empowerment rooted in local potential.
The support for the 49th Muhammadiyah–Aisyiyah Congress is also expected to reignite community unity and promote the potentials of North Sumatra to the international stage.
