05 February 2025
Threesna Sharfina
The Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Sumatera Utara (FKG USU), reaffirmed its commitment to building strategic partnerships in support of the university's tri dharma (three pillars) through an official visit from Dompet Dhuafa Waspada and representatives of Bank Sumut Syariah. The warm and cordial meeting was held on the FKG USU campus and was welcomed directly by the Dean of FKG USU, Dr. drg. Essie Octiara, Sp.KGA., Subsp.PKOA(K), accompanied by the Vice Dean for Student Affairs, Dr. drg. Pitu Wulandari, S.Psi., Sp.Perio., Subsp.MP(K).
During the meeting, both parties deeply reflected on several previously implemented collaborative programs, particularly community dental health and educational support. FKG USU and Dompet Dhuafa Waspada have long maintained a positive synergy through impactful social initiatives, including education aid and community service programs.
Beyond reviewing past achievements, the visit also served as a platform to map out future strategies. One of the key ideas discussed was the potential launch of Umrah and Qurban Savings Programs for students and academic members of FKG USU—an innovative approach aimed at providing spiritual enrichment and financial support for the campus community.
A central point of discussion was the prospect of collaborating with Bank Sumut Syariah as a strategic partner to support long-term social and health-oriented initiatives. This partnership is envisioned to encompass a variety of programs, from scholarship fund management and educational financing to the development of Sharia-based services tailored for the academic community.
“FKG USU remains committed to helping students complete their education successfully, including through educational assistance programs. We welcome all opportunities for collaboration that align with this vision and reinforce our role in upholding the university’s three pillars,” stated Dr. drg. Essie Octiara in her opening remarks.
Vice Dean III Dr. drg. Pitu Wulandari added that it is essential for higher education institutions to foster inclusive and impactful partnerships. The involvement of Dompet Dhuafa Waspada and Bank Sumut Syariah was highlighted as a concrete example of cross-sector collaboration that strengthens mutual goals.
In response, Dompet Dhuafa Waspada representatives expressed their appreciation for the warm welcome from FKG USU. They shared hopes for the partnership's continued growth, including more stakeholders' involvement in future initiatives. Support from financial institutions like Bank Sumut Syariah is considered crucial to accelerating socially beneficial programs that positively impact the wider community.
The meeting concluded with an open discussion and joint planning for future initiatives. All parties agreed that sustaining this partnership would be fundamental to achieving long-term community service initiatives rooted in humanitarian values and supported by professional collaboration.
FKG USU remains open to collaboration with various strategic partners to broaden its impact in social, educational, and dental health sectors. Through visionary and robust partnerships, FKG USU continues to establish itself as an academic leader and an institution actively contributing to creating a healthier and more inclusive society.
