Banda Aceh – The atmosphere of the EXPO MILAD Universitas Syiah Kuala (USK) grew even more vibrant when the Mayor of Banda Aceh, Illiza Sa’aduddin Djamal, visited the booth of the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences (FMIPA). The Mayor was warmly welcomed by the academic community, who had been showcasing various innovations and research works by students and lecturers since the morning.
During the visit, Illiza was accompanied by the Dean of FMIPA, Prof. Dr. Taufik Fuadi Abidin, S.Si., M.Tech., who personally introduced several of the faculty’s flagship research products. Among the innovations displayed were ecoprint an eco-friendly technology for creating natural patterns on fabric; a patchouli oil authenticity testing device, valuable for Aceh’s essential oil industry; and a facial health detection device that combines sensor technology with digital analysis applications.
Mayor Illiza appeared enthusiastic as she listened to the explanations from the students managing the booth. She expressed appreciation and encouragement for the younger generation to continue developing creativity and applying knowledge for the benefit of society.
“Innovations born on campus must be able to answer the challenges of our times. I am proud to see the spirit of FMIPA’s students,” she remarked.
Meanwhile, FMIPA Dean Prof. Dr. Taufik Fuadi Abidin emphasized that the faculty’s participation in the EXPO MILAD USK was not only to showcase their work but also to demonstrate the university’s real contribution to society.
“We want to emphasize that research at FMIPA does not stop in the laboratory but is present to provide practical solutions with direct impact on the community,” he explained.
The Mayor’s visit concluded with a photo session together with FMIPA lecturers and students. Her presence was seen as a source of motivation for the participants of the EXPO and as a reinforcement of the synergy between local government and academia in fostering new innovations.
This activity is also aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly:
- SDG 4 – Quality Education: Encouraging research-based learning and the practical application of science and technology.
- SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure: Promoting innovation and the development of sustainable technologies that benefit society.
- SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities: Strengthening collaboration between universities and local governments to create environmentally conscious and resilient communities.
- SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals: Fostering synergy between academia, government, and society to advance sustainable development initiatives.
