Banda Aceh, January 13, 2025 – The Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences at Universitas Syiah Kuala (FMIPA USK) continues its strategic collaboration with the Central Statistics Agency (BPS) of Aceh Province by signing a new Memorandum of Agreement (MoA). This agreement aims to enhance cooperation in education, research, and the utilization of statistical data. The event took place at the FMIPA USK Senate Meeting Room, attended by leaders from both organizations as well as representatives from various departments within FMIPA.
The event was led by Prof. Dr. Taufik Fuadi Abidin, S.Si., M.Tech., the Dean of FMIPA USK, who was accompanied by Dr. Nasrullah Zaini, S.Si., M.Si., M.Sc. (Vice Dean for Academic Affairs) and Dr. Ir. Wira Dharma, S.Si., M.P., M.Si. (Vice Dean for Student Affairs, Alumni, and Cooperation). Also present at the event were Prof. Dr. Zurnila Marli Kesuma, S.Si., M.Si., from the Department of Statistics, and representatives from the Departments of Mathematics and Informatics. From BPS Aceh, Dr. Ahmadriswan Nasution, S.Si., M.T. (Head of BPS Aceh), along with key officials such as Tasdik Ilhamudin, S.Si., M.Si. (Head of General Affairs), Hendri Achmad Hudori, SST, M.Si. (Head of Dissemination and Statistical Services), Dina Nirmala Sari, S.Si. (Public Relations), and Gunadi Subagia, S.Tr.Stat. (Public Relations), also attended.
In his speech, Prof. Dr. Taufik Fuadi Abidin emphasized the importance of the partnership, acknowledging the decades-long collaboration with BPS Aceh through various programs that have effectively introduced statistics to students and the wider community. “Data is not just numbers; it represents the foundation for understanding and solving real-world issues. This collaboration paves the way for students to use data as a powerful tool for research and innovation,” he stated.
Dr. Ahmadriswan Nasution, Head of BPS Aceh, echoed these sentiments and stressed the critical role of data in development planning and decision-making. “We fully support FMIPA USK’s initiative to make data an integral part of the educational process. Through this MoA, we hope that both students and faculty will leverage the data provided by BPS to produce research that has a direct and positive impact on Aceh and Indonesia,” he said.
Following the MoA signing, a lively discussion took place, providing a platform for participants to share insights and perspectives. BPS Aceh presented an overview of the extensive data it holds, including demographic, economic, educational, and health data, outlining how these resources can support policy development and decision-making. Prof. Dr. Zurnila Marli Kesuma from the Department of Statistics highlighted the critical need for students to strengthen their data literacy. “This collaboration offers a unique opportunity to enhance students’ skills in data analysis, aligning their competencies with the evolving demands of the global job market,” she said.
Moreover, the partnership includes several key initiatives, such as training programs on statistical methods, internship opportunities for students, and collaborative research projects based on statistical data. Dr. Nasrullah Zaini emphasized that the effective use of data is crucial to addressing global challenges. “Our students will not only learn to interpret data but will also develop the skills necessary to analyze, visualize, and transform that data into actionable information,” he explained.
The longstanding collaboration through Pojok Statistika was also recognized as a successful model of partnership between FMIPA USK and BPS Aceh. This initiative has become a highly effective educational platform, helping students gain valuable statistical skills while deepening their understanding of the practical applications of data in everyday life. The program has become an important bridge for connecting academic learning with real-world needs.
At the conclusion of the event, both parties reaffirmed their commitment to advancing this partnership and continuing to enhance their synergy in promoting data-driven, sustainable development. With this collaboration, FMIPA USK and BPS Aceh aim to generate tangible solutions that will benefit the people of Aceh and contribute to the broader development of Indonesia.
Through these strategic initiatives, it is hoped that FMIPA USK students will increasingly understand the value of data in making informed decisions, contributing significantly to regional and national development. This partnership sets the stage for future collaborations that will continue to shape the future of education and development in Aceh and beyond. The integration of data into education not only fosters a more scientifically-minded society but also empowers future leaders to drive meaningful change across various sectors.
