The future of tourism isn't just about breathtaking landscapes—it's about the stories, traditions, and local wisdom that bring those places to life. With this spirit, the Batak Literature Study Program, Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Sumatera Utara, organized the Batak Literature Series webinar entitled "Cultural-Based Geotourism Development in the Toba Caldera." The event invited students, academics, and the public to discover how culture can become a powerful driver for sustainable tourism and regional development.
The webinar featured distinguished speakers Prof. Dr. Robert Sibarani, M.S., Director of the USU Graduate School and Chairman of the North Sumatra Traditional Institution (ATL), along with Dr. Made Sri Satyawati, S.S., M.Hum., Dean of the Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Udayana University. Through engaging discussions moderated by Drs. Jekmen Sinulingga, M.Hum., participants explored the vital role of local wisdom, indigenous traditions, and community participation in strengthening the identity of the Toba Caldera as one of Indonesia's leading geotourism destinations.
More than just an academic webinar, this event highlighted that preserving culture and developing tourism can go hand in hand. By connecting research, education, and local communities, the Batak Literature Study Program continues to encourage young people to see culture not only as a legacy of the past but also as a valuable resource for innovation and sustainable development. Because when culture is preserved and shared with the world, every destination tells a story worth experiencing.