The Universitas Muhammadiyah Sumatera Utara (UMSU) has launched the English Day program as part of its efforts to enhance international language proficiency. The event was held at the UMSU Campus Auditorium, Jalan Muchtar Basri No.3, Medan, on Tuesday, May 14, 2024.
The inauguration of the “Everyday is English Day” program was marked by the beating of a traditional drum by the UMSU Rector, Prof. Dr. Agussani, MAP, represented by the Vice Rector III, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Rudianto, M.SI, accompanied by the Head of UMSU Language Center, Muhammad Rafi’I, M.A, the Head of Student Affairs and Alumni Bureau, Dr. Radiman S.E., M.SI, UMSU OIC, Faculty Deans, and student representatives.
In his opening remarks, Vice Rector III, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Rudianto, S. Sos., M.Si., mentioned that new students might not be aware that two or three years before the pandemic, Universitas Muhammadiyah Sumatera Utara had attempted a similar program.
“New students may not know that two or three years before the pandemic, Universitas Muhammadiyah Sumatera Utara also launched a similar initiative, Saturday With English Fun Day, which, unfortunately, didn’t succeed,” he shared.
Dr. Rudianto further encouraged the entire academic community and students to start practicing English in their interactions.
“This program is a great opportunity, and I hope all staff, the academic community, students, and other stakeholders begin learning to interact in English,” he explained.
On the same occasion, Imelda Damayanti Manurung, S.S., M.Hum., Secretary of the UMSU Language Center, elaborated that the program is a collaboration between two parties.
“English Day is a university program where the Language Center facilitates and collaborates with the English Education Study Program to bring it to life,” she stated.
She added that the program aims to create an English-speaking environment.
“This program is intended for lecturers, students, and university staff to establish an English-speaking environment,” she continued.
Finally, the Head of the Language Center, Muhammad Rafi’i S.Pd., expressed his hopes for the program’s launch.
“Through this program, we will foster a stronger English-speaking atmosphere and ensure that each faculty has an English corner,” he hoped.
