Efforts to strengthen the connection between academic learning and field practice are realized through the Learning Outside the Study Program (PLPS) activity of the Undergraduate Program in Agrotechnology, Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Sumatera Utara (FP USU). Through this program, students undertake internships at the UPTD for Food Crop and Horticultural Plant Protection and Food Quality and Safety Supervision (PTPH and PMKP).
The PLPS activity provides students with the opportunity to gain direct learning experiences in a work environment relevant to the field of agrotechnology. During the activity, students gain insights into practices related to food crop and horticultural plant protection, as well as food quality and safety supervision.
Through this experience, students can apply the knowledge acquired during their studies to field practice. The activity also serves as a means of developing technical skills, broadening insights into the world of work, and improving students' ability to adapt to the needs and dynamics of the agricultural sector.
The implementation of PLPS at UPTD PTPH and PMKP is part of the efforts of the Undergraduate Program in Agrotechnology, Faculty of Agriculture USU, to provide contextual and experience-based learning. Direct interaction with the work environment is expected to help students understand the application of agricultural knowledge more comprehensively while preparing themselves to enter the professional world.
Learning directly, developing skills, and broadening experiences to become competent and adaptive agricultural professionals. This PLPS activity also supports the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly:
SDG 4 – Quality Education
SDG 8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth
SDG 12 – Responsible Consumption and Production