Padang, May 2025 — Universitas Andalas, through an initiative by the Department of Food and Agricultural Product Technology (TPHP) under the Faculty of Agricultural Technology, successfully organized an International Summer Course program themed "Ethno-Food and the Cultural Beauty of Minangkabau." This program aimed to introduce the richness of traditional Minangkabau cuisine and cultural heritage to both domestic and international participants.

The three-day event was designed to provide a comprehensive experience through a combination of thematic lectures, hands-on workshops, cultural performances, and field trips. Throughout the program, participants were introduced to Minangkabau culture through a variety of engaging activities, including direct observation of traditional food preparation processes such as lamang and rendang. Participants also took part in cultural visits to several iconic and historical sites, including the Istano Basa Pagaruyung in Batusangkar and the Jam Gadang in Bukittinggi.

The program placed a strong emphasis on understanding Minangkabau culture, known as one of the world’s largest matrilineal societies, and the distinctive values that shape it.

The event was officially opened by Dr. Ir. Alfi Asben, M.Si, Dean of the Faculty of Agricultural Technology, and held at The Gade Lounge, Universitas Andalas Library. Also in attendance was Prof. Dr. Ir. Novizar, M.Si, Head of the TPHP Department, who served as one of the keynote speakers. The program also featured several other speakers, including Dr. Fetriyuna from Universitas Padjadjaran, Prof. Dr. Rini, Diah Cahaya Iman, Ph.D, and Dr. Hasanuddin.

Participants of the summer course came from various institutions, including five international students from Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember (ITS), one student from Universitas Padjadjaran, and ten international students from Universitas Andalas.

Through this program, it is expected that participants will gain not only knowledge about the excellence of West Sumatra’s traditional cuisine but also insights into the close connection between food, cultural identity, and social structures in Minangkabau society. This event stands as a reflection of Universitas Andalas's commitment to preserving and promoting local cultural heritage at the global level.