On Tuesday, October 28, 2025, Universitas Sumatera Utara (USU) held the 97th Youth Pledge Day Commemoration Ceremony at the USU Rectorate Bureau courtyard under the theme “Youth in Action, Indonesia United.” The ceremony was led by the Vice Rector II of USU, Dr. Muhammad Arifin Nasution, S.Sos., M.SP., who served as the ceremony’s presiding officer.

The Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Sumatera Utara (FK USU), was given the opportunity to serve as the organizing team for the ceremony. The officers included dr. Rizki Indah Putri Lubis, MHPE., as the master of ceremonies; Prof. Dr. dr. Dewi Masyithah Darlan, DAP&E., M.P.H., Sp.Park., who recited the Preamble of the 1945 Constitution of the Republic of Indonesia; Prof. Dr. dr. Elmeida Effendy, M.Ked(KJ)., Sp.KJ(K)., who read the Resolution of the 1928 Indonesian Youth Congress; dr. Esther Reny Deswani Sitorus, M.Ked(PA)., Sp.PA., as the conductor; and dr. Wisman, M.Ked(Ped), Sp.A(K), who led the prayer.

FK USU’s participation in this event reflects the institution’s commitment to fostering nationalism, unity, responsibility, and dedication to the nation among members of the academic community. The activity also aligns with SDG 4 (Quality Education), particularly in promoting character education and lifelong learning, as well as SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions) through strengthening the values of unity, tolerance, and civic responsibility.

During the ceremony, Vice Rector II read the Youth Pledge Day commemorative text prepared by Indonesia’s Minister of Youth and Sports, Erick Thohir. The message invited the younger generation to reflect on the spirit and courage of the youth who pledged to fight for independence and national unity. Through knowledge, hard work, and honesty, today’s generation is encouraged to continue the struggle of its predecessors, uphold Indonesia’s greatness, and remain steadfast in the face of challenges.

“Today, we no longer raise bamboo spears; instead, we uphold knowledge, hard work, and honesty. Yet the meaning remains the same — Indonesia must continue to stand tall,” he stated.

This spirit is consistent with SDG 4 (Quality Education), which emphasizes the importance of developing knowledge, skills, and character as essential foundations for national development. Furthermore, the values of hard work, integrity, and responsibility serve as the basis for shaping a generation capable of making positive contributions to society and sustainable development.

Dr. Muhammad Arifin Nasution, S.Sos., M.SP., also emphasized the importance of fostering confidence in the spirit and capabilities of young people, both in rural communities and urban areas. According to him, despite the rapid pace of global change, young people who are courageous, resilient, persistent, patriotic, and empathetic can become a powerful force for Indonesia’s progress.

This message is relevant to SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) through its emphasis on developing the potential, productivity, and creativity of young people, as well as SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) by highlighting the importance of providing equal opportunities for young people from diverse backgrounds and regions to participate in national development. Through unity and collaboration, the younger generation is expected to become a driving force for inclusive and sustainable change.

Through the 97th Youth Pledge Day Commemoration, Universitas Sumatera Utara, including the Faculty of Medicine, reaffirmed the importance of the younger generation and the entire academic community in maintaining national unity, strengthening national character, and contributing to Indonesia’s development. This spirit is expected to extend beyond the commemoration itself and be reflected in concrete actions in education, community service, and the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).