Universitas Sumatera Utara (USU), through the Directorate of Innovation, Sustainable Development, and Science and Technology Parks (Dit. IPBKST), hosted a Focus Group Discussion (FGD) in collaboration with the Indonesian Food and Drug Supervisory Agency (BPOM RI) to discuss the development and commercialization of research and innovation products in the fields of cosmetics, food, and pharmaceuticals.

This event was held as a forum for discussion and information exchange between universities and regulatory agencies to strengthen understanding of regulatory aspects, requirements, safety, quality, and opportunities for developing research-based products so that they can move into the commercialization phase in a more focused manner.

Through this FGD, various potential research outcomes and innovations within the higher education sector can be discussed, taking into account the needs and applicable regulations in each field. The participation of the Indonesian Food and Drug Administration (BPOM RI) is expected to provide a regulatory perspective while also serving as part of the mentoring process to encourage the development of products that meet safety and quality standards and have the potential to benefit the public.

The IPBKST Directorate at USU continues to promote the strengthening of the innovation ecosystem and commercialization through collaboration with various parties, including government agencies, the business sector, industry, and other strategic partners. Collaboration with BPOM RI is a key step in bridging the gap between academic research outcomes and the needs of industry and society.

The commercialization of research outcomes is not only focused on producing products but also on ensuring that those products meet standards of quality, safety, benefits, and competitiveness. Therefore, understanding regulatory aspects from the development stage onward is a crucial part of accelerating the process of transforming research findings and innovations into products that are ready for development and use.

This FGD also supports the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being, by promoting the development of safe and high-quality health, food, and cosmetic products.

Furthermore, this initiative aligns with SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure by strengthening the innovation ecosystem, fostering inter-institutional collaboration, and promoting the development of research outcomes and innovations into value-added and sustainable products.

Through this initiative, USU and BPOM RI are expected to continue strengthening their synergy in supporting the development of innovative research-based products that comply with regulatory requirements and provide tangible benefits to industry and society.