Lecturers from Universitas Muhammadiyah Sumatera Utara (UMSU) have provided guidance to 47 tofu-producing micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Kampung Tahu, Binjai, as part of the university’s commitment to community service.
The program was initiated by UMSU’s Institute for Research and Community Service (LPPM) as part of the implementation of the university’s tridharma (three pillars of higher education), and took place on Thursday (May 15).
This initiative is the outcome of various research and community service projects conducted by UMSU lecturers, supported by both internal and external funding schemes. The program aims to help MSMEs manage their businesses more professionally and sustainably.
Present at the event were Assoc. Prof. Dr. Muhammad Fitra Zambak, ST, M.Sc, Head of LPPM UMSU, along with a multidisciplinary team of lecturers including Dr. Sigit Hardiyanto, M.I.Kom, dr. Eka Febriyanto, M.Gizi, and Dr. Hastuti Olivia, SE, M.Ak, who is also known as an MSME advocate. Also in attendance were Sukamaju Village Head Juliadi, SE, Kampung Tahu Advisor Sugi Hartaty, and Kampung Tahu MSME Chairperson Sugiyani.
The assistance provided included training in financial management, digital transformation of business reporting, green accounting, digital marketing strategies, and strengthening business literacy.
“Through academic and collaborative approaches, we hope the tofu MSMEs in Binjai will not only survive but also grow sustainably and become competitive in wider markets,” said Muhammad Fitra Zambak.
Kampung Tahu Binjai has been established for over 30 years and is recognized as a key tofu production center in North Sumatra, with a market reach that includes Medan, Deli Serdang, Langkat, and parts of Aceh Province.
Sugi Hartaty, Chair of Kampung Tahu MSMEs, expressed her appreciation for UMSU’s contribution.
“We are truly helped by the presence of UMSU lecturers who have provided hands-on guidance,” she said.
She also expressed hope that this partnership will continue so that the MSMEs in Kampung Tahu Binjai can grow to the next level and be better prepared for future challenges.
