The 4th TALENTA-Agricultural Summer Course 2026 series not only provided learning experiences through laboratory visits but also introduced food innovations developed by the academic community of the Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Sumatera Utara (FP USU). This was part of the visit by Universiti Malaya students to the Food Chemistry and Biochemistry Analysis Laboratory of FP USU on Friday (October 2, 2026).
A total of 53 Universiti Malaya students, together with FP USU students participating in the 4th TALENTA-Agricultural Summer Course 2026, had the opportunity to learn more about research and development facilities in the field of food.
At the Food Chemistry and Biochemistry Analysis Laboratory, participants were introduced to various facilities and equipment supporting research and development activities in the field of food. The explanation of these facilities provided participants with an overview of the role of laboratories in supporting academic and research activities within FP USU.
The visit became even more engaging through a welcome drink prepared for the participants. On this occasion, Universiti Malaya students were introduced to various innovative products resulting from research conducted by lecturers and students of Food Technology at FP USU.
Several innovative products introduced included Chrysanthemum Flower Tea, Banana Steril Ready-to-Eat, and Banana Leather, as well as various other food innovation products. Participants had the opportunity to learn about and taste these products as part of their knowledge and academic culture exchange experience.
The introduction of these innovative products provided an overview of how research findings in food technology can be developed into innovative products with broader utilization potential. The activity also demonstrated the connection between the research process, product development, and the application of knowledge to address community needs.
The interaction between Universiti Malaya and FP USU students took place in an interactive atmosphere. Participants exchanged experiences regarding academic and research activities while broadening their perspectives on food innovation development at their respective institutions.
This activity formed part of the implementation of the theme of the 4th TALENTA-Agricultural Summer Course 2026, “Smart and Sustainable Agri-Food Systems: From Local Wisdom to Global Solutions.” Through the laboratory visit and introduction to innovative products, participants gained a learning experience that connected academic knowledge with its application in developing innovative and sustainable food products.
In addition to enriching students' academic experiences, the activity also strengthened relations and networks between FP USU and Universiti Malaya. The knowledge exchange is expected to become part of the development of academic and research cooperation in the future.
This activity supports SDG 4: Quality Education through experiential learning and knowledge exchange, as well as SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals through strengthening international academic collaboration and networks.