Medan, September 29, 2026 – The Undergraduate Program in Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering USU, conducted an assistance session for the Basic Metallurgy practicum. The activity, themed around metallography, was part of laboratory-based learning for students.
During the practicum, students prepared specimens through grinding and polishing processes. These stages were carried out to ensure that the specimen surfaces were suitable for observation in the subsequent stage. Students worked with laboratory equipment and followed the guidance of supervisors during specimen preparation. The application of work procedures and the use of protective equipment were also part of the practicum conducted within the Mechanical Engineering Study Program.
After preparing the specimens, students observed the morphology of the materials. This series of activities helped them connect the concepts of Basic Metallurgy with surface conditions and characteristics that could be observed directly.
The practicum assistance session strengthened practice-based learning experiences, particularly in sample preparation and metallographic observation. The activity positioned students not only as recipients of learning materials but also as active participants in laboratory procedures.
This activity supports SDG 4 – Quality Education through practical learning and the development of student skills. Its relevance to SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure is reflected in the introduction to material characterization methods that are relevant to the development of engineering competencies and industrial innovation.