10 December 2024
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The foundation of this commitment is codified in USU Academic Regulation No. 13 of 2022, which establishes justice, transparency, equality, and inclusivity as guiding principles for every academic and administrative process within the university.
Specifically, Article 2 of the Regulation explicitly guarantees that all individuals—regardless of gender, ethnicity, religion, or social background—are entitled to equal access to education, support services, and professional development.
This fundamental principle is further strengthened by Rector’s Decree No. 459/UN5.1.R/SK/SPB/2023, which provides a clear directive for implementing inclusive and non-discriminatory practices in key areas such as recruitment, promotion, student admissions, and access to campus facilities. Together, these policies form a legally enforceable framework ensuring that women and other marginalized groups experience fair treatment and equitable participation.
“Gender equality is not just a vision—it is a core principle embedded in USU’s governance,” said Dr. Windha, S.H., M.Hum, Director of the Directorate of Law and Organization. “Through a strong legal foundation and continuous monitoring, we ensure that inclusivity becomes a lived reality across our institution.”
To uphold and continuously evaluate its non-discrimination policy, USU conducts regular gender equality assessments through surveys, focus groups, and feedback mechanisms involving students, faculty, and administrative personnel. These assessments are crucial for identifying potential challenges, improving institutional practices, and maintaining accountability.
The university also organizes dedicated training and awareness programmes for faculty and staff focused on gender sensitivity, inclusive pedagogy, and prevention of harassment and discrimination. These initiatives are coordinated collaboratively by the Directorate of Student and Alumni Affairs, the Directorate of Law and Organization, and the Community Service Institution.
Beyond institutional structures, USU empowers its students to take an active role in promoting equality and inclusion. Student-led organizations such as Duta Inklusi USU (USU Inclusion Ambassadors) and the Student Forum for Disability Care advocate for gender justice, accessibility, and inclusive education. These groups help monitor the practical implementation of gender policies and raise awareness on campus through campaigns, discussions, and mentorship programmes.
“Empowering students to champion equality builds a stronger and more inclusive academic culture,” stated Prof. Dr. Muryanto Amin, S.Sos., M.Si., Rector of Universitas Sumatera Utara. “Our non-discrimination policy ensures that women—and all members of our community—can learn, work, and lead in an environment that is fair, respectful, and empowering.”
USU’s non-discrimination and gender equality framework directly supports SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 5 (Gender Equality), and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities). The university continues to embed equity, justice, and inclusivity into its governance and academic operations, cementing its reputation as a national leader in inclusive higher education.
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