Students from the Undergraduate Program in Agrotechnology, Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Sumatera Utara (USU), carried out internship activities at Sarang Giting Plantation, PTPN IV Regional I, in the Feasibility Analysis Study Program for Pre-Commercial Pilot Project on Soybean Commodity Development. This activity aims to examine the opportunities for soybean development in areas planned for oil palm replanting. The study is part of exploring alternative plantation land utilization for food crop development.

The execution of this program provides opportunities for students to learn about the commodity development assessment process within a plantation industry environment. Through involvement in field activities, students can connect academic knowledge with the direct needs and challenges of agricultural management. This experience also broadens students' understanding regarding commodity development planning and the application of agrotechnology in the working world.

Utilizing oil palm replanting areas for soybean development is one of the aspects studied in an effort to optimize plantation land potential. These opportunities need to be reviewed based on land suitability and development feasibility so as to provide benefits for agricultural production activities. The study results are expected to serve as a consideration in determining the potential of soybeans as an alternative commodity in plantation areas.

Students from the Undergraduate Program in Agrotechnology FP USU take a group photo with the leadership of PTPN IV Regional I.

Student involvement in this industry-based program also supports the competence enhancement of human resources in agriculture. In addition to gaining field experience, students have the opportunity to understand the interconnection between commodity development, resource management, and industry needs. This is part of the effort to prepare graduates capable of adapting to developments in the agricultural sector and contributing to innovation and agricultural business development.

This activity contributes to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) through exploring soybean development to support food security, SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) through increasing student competence and assessing potential economic added value, and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through collaboration between the Faculty of Agriculture USU and PTPN IV Regional I. This synergy between higher education and industry is expected to strengthen the link between education and workforce needs while encouraging productive and sustainable agricultural development.