MEDAN — The Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Sumatera Utara (FP USU), invited the Head of the Center for Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BBMKG) Region I Medan, Dr. Hendro Nugroho, S.T., M.Si., as a speaker on the third day of the 2026 Introduction to Campus Life for New Students (PKKMB) at FP USU. The event was held on Friday (August 14, 2026), at the USU Student Center.
Under the theme “Food Security as the Foundation of National Development,” Dr. Hendro provided new students with an understanding of the relationship between weather and climate conditions and the agricultural sector. The presentation covered weather and climate monitoring in Indonesia, the climate conditions of North Sumatra, the El Niño and La Niña phenomena, climate change, as well as the roles of BMKG and higher education institutions in supporting modern agriculture.
Dr. Hendro explained that accurate weather and climate information plays an important role in decision-making in the agricultural sector, particularly in determining planting schedules, irrigation management, crop selection, and harvest timing. The use of such information is becoming increasingly important amid the various challenges posed by climate change.
“Accurate climate information and cross-sectoral collaboration are essential to building a resilient and self-sufficient food system in North Sumatra,” said Dr. Hendro.
In his presentation, he also encouraged students to understand the importance of climate change adaptation in agriculture. Several measures that can be taken include utilizing weather and climate forecasts from BMKG, planning planting seasons, maintaining soil health through the use of organic materials, and strengthening cooperation and knowledge through farmer groups, training, and agricultural extension programs.
Dr. Hendro also introduced various BMKG technological supports for modern agriculture, including automated observation systems, satellite data and numerical modeling, as well as the Climate Early Warning System. According to him, the future development of agriculture needs to be supported by the integration of climate data, early warning systems, climate literacy, precision agriculture, and smart agriculture.
“Going forward, we need to strengthen the integration of climate data and early warning systems, improve climate literacy among farmers, build strong pentahelix collaboration, and develop precision agriculture and smart agriculture,” he explained.
The presentation was interactive and received enthusiastic responses from the new students of FP USU. This was reflected in the large number of students who raised questions about climate conditions, climate change, food security, and the application of weather and climate information in the agricultural sector.
The event was also attended by the Dean of FP USU, Vice Deans, Heads and Secretaries of Study Programs, as well as all new students of FP USU in 2026. The participation of BBMKG Region I Medan was part of an effort to strengthen students’ understanding of contemporary agricultural challenges while highlighting the importance of collaboration between higher education institutions and government agencies.
The activity also contributed to the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). SDG 4 (Quality Education) was reflected in the provision of knowledge and climate literacy to new students as part of efforts to strengthen education that is relevant to sustainable development challenges. SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) was supported through the enhancement of knowledge on food security and sustainable agricultural development. Meanwhile, SDG 13 (Climate Action) was reflected in education on climate change and adaptation strategies in the agricultural sector.
In addition, the activity supported SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through collaboration between FP USU and BBMKG Region I Medan to broaden students’ knowledge while promoting the use of climate information to support agricultural development.
At the end of the session, FP USU presented a commemorative plaque to Dr. Hendro Nugroho as a token of appreciation for his contribution and the insights he shared with the new students. The event concluded with a group photo.
Through this activity, new students of FP USU are expected to gain a better understanding of the importance of climate information, technology, innovation, and collaboration in building a resilient and sustainable agricultural sector capable of supporting national food security.