The Master’s Program in Public Administration at Universitas Sumatera Utara (USU) organized an International Summer Course titled “Local Leadership for Sustainable Development.” The program was held in collaboration with the Consulate of India and aimed to serve as a platform for learning, idea exchange, and cross-country collaboration. It focused on understanding the role of local leadership in transforming public administration, particularly in disaster resilience governance as a key element of climate resilience and inclusive sustainable development.

In this context, disaster resilience governance refers to governance systems that strengthen the capacity of local governments, communities, and stakeholders to anticipate, respond to, and adapt to disaster risks increasingly influenced by climate change.

Chair of the organizing committee, Dra. Asima Yanty Sylvania Siahaan, M.A., Ph.D., expressed hope that USU will continue to be recognized as a center for knowledge development relevant to global societal needs, particularly in local leadership and inclusive disaster resilience governance. In addition to expanding international academic networks, the program is also expected to enhance the university’s reputation and attract international students to pursue their studies at USU.

“Through this program, we aim to strengthen USU’s contribution to science and humanity, in line with its vision as a global barometer of knowledge,” she stated during the event.

The program demonstrated that a combination of online learning, academic discussions, and field research can effectively deepen participants’ understanding of real-world local issues. Dra. Asima further noted that the initiative successfully built international networks, strengthened USU’s collaboration with local governments, and opened opportunities for follow-up initiatives, including the development of policy briefs.

“It can continue to be developed with a broader participant scope, stronger international collaboration, and more tangible policy contributions for regional development,” she added.

The program involved 35 participants from India, Thailand, Malaysia, the Philippines, Nigeria, and Indonesia. Participants engaged in online sessions from April 21–24, 2026, followed by field trips to Karo Regency—an area prone to disasters—and Medan City from April 25–30, 2026. The program concluded on April 30, 2026.