The Association Internationale des Étudiants en Sciences Économiques et Commerciales (AIESEC) at Universitas Sumatera Utara (USU) organized the Kawula 17 event with high school students at the Mikie Wijaya Hall, Faculty of Economics and Business (FEB) USU, on Thursday (April 30, 2026).

Vice Rector for Research, Innovation, and Cooperation of USU, Prof. Dr. Eng. Himsar Ambarita, S.T., M.T., described the activity as a positive initial step in implementing AIESEC programs, particularly those related to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). He expressed hope that participants would develop critical thinking skills and actively share insights and inspiration.

Prof. Himsar also emphasized that achieving development goals is a shared responsibility, especially SDG 6 on clean water, SDG 7 on renewable energy, and SDG 12 on waste reduction. He further introduced USU’s new tagline, “The Era of Ultimate Excellence,” encouraging all members of the academic community to embody it in both education and teaching practices.

“Our new tagline is The Era of Ultimate Excellence. It must be embraced by every member of the academic community so that all activities, whether in education or teaching, truly produce the best outcomes,” he stated.

Asep Perry M. Anthoriez, S.P., M.Si., from the Environmental and Forestry Agency of North Sumatra Province, highlighted the threat of the Triple Planetary Crisis—climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution. He noted that its impacts are already evident in North Sumatra, ranging from flash floods to millions of tons of waste accumulation in Medan and Deli Serdang. He encouraged both the younger generation and academics to become part of the solution without compromising environmental sustainability.

“With the support of academics and the spirit of the younger generation, environmental management is expected not only to curb the rise in global temperatures below critical thresholds but also to provide economic benefits for society and the nation without harming nature,” he emphasized.

AIESEC Founder Manager, Diva Sabrina Aziezah, stated that the event aims to build environmental awareness through educational materials and discussions.

Meanwhile, Kawula 17 CIO Founder, Dian Irawati, added that participants were encouraged to think critically—not only in finding solutions but also in understanding who is affected by the issues. “AIESEC members guide participants in critical thinking by presenting real problems, so they not only propose solutions but also reflect on who is being helped and who is impacted,” she explained.

Chairperson of the committee, Ghaida Tsuraya, noted that the event was attended by 120 high school students from several schools, including SMA Swasta Al-Ulum, SMA Swasta Santo Ignatius, SMAN 4 Medan, SMAN 6 Medan, MAN 1 Medan, and MAN 2 Medan. The program specifically targeted 10th and 11th grade students, who are seen as the next generation and the foundation of the nation’s future development.