Simalungun, July 18, 2026 – The Faculty of Engineering, Universitas Sumatera Utara (FT USU) carried out a Community Partnership Scheme under its Community Service Program to address water accessibility challenges faced by a local sugar palm nursery. The community service team consisted of Dian Morfi Nasution, S.T., M.T.; Ir. Suprianto, S.T., M.T., Ph.D.; Mahadi, S.T., M.T.; Ade Irwan, S.T., M.T.; and Maraghi Muttaqin, S.T., M.T.

To address the site's challenging topography, the team designed and implemented a mechanical irrigation pump system powered by a 5.5-horsepower gasoline engine, equipped with 2-inch suction and discharge pipes. Water is pumped from a pond located at the lower elevation to a storage tank situated uphill before being distributed throughout the sugar palm nursery using a gravity-fed irrigation system.

The irrigation system represents the primary output of the community service project and was specifically designed to accommodate the site's geographical conditions. The technology is expected to reduce reliance on manual water transportation while improving the efficiency of water supply for sugar palm seedlings. However, its long-term impact on nursery productivity and business performance will require further evaluation.

The initiative has the potential to strengthen the sustainability of small-scale sugar palm nursery enterprises while contributing to several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It supports SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth by enhancing the resilience of local microenterprises, SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure through the application of appropriate technology, SDG 13: Climate Action by promoting adaptation to water scarcity associated with climate variability, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals by fostering close collaboration between academia and local communities to address real-world challenges through knowledge and technology transfer.

Through its community service programs, the Faculty of Engineering, Universitas Sumatera Utara, remains committed to delivering engineering-based solutions that address community needs. The application of appropriate technology is expected to promote innovation, strengthen community capacity, and contribute to sustainable development.