The Department of Architecture and the Professional Architect Program (PPAr) of the Faculty of Engineering, Universitas Sumatera Utara (FT USU), underwent an international accreditation assessment conducted by the Korean Architectural Accrediting Board (KAAB) from April 18–22, 2026. The assessment marked an important stage in evaluating the quality of architectural education at both the academic and professional levels.

The assessment began on Saturday, April 18, 2026, with a site inspection, during which the assessment team conducted an initial review of the facilities and physical infrastructure supporting the Department of Architecture and the Professional Architect Program.

On Sunday, April 19, 2026, the first day of the formal assessment commenced with an opening session, followed by interviews with architecture faculty members responsible for various courses. These interviews formed part of the evaluation of teaching practices, faculty qualifications, and the alignment between course content and the program's intended learning outcomes.

The assessment continued on Monday, April 20, 2026, with a visit to the Universitas Sumatera Utara Rectorate Building. During the second day of the assessment, the accreditation team also interviewed undergraduate architecture students and students enrolled in the Professional Architect Program. The interviews were intended to provide direct insights into students' academic experiences, the implementation of educational activities, and the academic support provided by the programs.

On Tuesday, April 21, 2026, the assessors toured the buildings and facilities of the Department of Architecture. They also visited the Universitas Sumatera Utara Library to evaluate the learning resources and academic support available to students and faculty members.

The KAAB accreditation visit concluded on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, marking the completion of the five-day evaluation process. The assessment is expected to contribute to the continuous improvement of educational quality, strengthen academic governance, and support the sustainable development of the Department of Architecture and the Professional Architect Program in accordance with internationally recognized standards for architectural education.

The accreditation process reflects the ongoing commitment of the Department of Architecture and the Professional Architect Program to achieving academic excellence, strengthening quality standards through international benchmarking, and advancing high-quality architectural professional education with global competitiveness.

This initiative contributes most directly to SDG 4: Quality Education by supporting the evaluation and continuous enhancement of architectural education. Through this process, the faculty aims to further improve the quality of teaching and learning while ensuring that graduates are well prepared to meet the demands of the architectural profession.

FT USU remains committed to implementing continuous quality assurance and strengthening architectural education that is accountable, relevant, and aligned with the evolving standards of the profession at the international level.