Vocational education has now become a key pillar in strengthening the quality of human resources in preparation for Indonesia Emas 2045.
The enhancement of vocational education begins in vocational high schools and continues through applied bachelor’s degree programs.
Graduates from vocational education have been supporting the industrial workforce needs in the country.
However, many companies still perceive vocational graduates as not yet fully qualified for the industrial sector. Therefore, improvements in industry-based learning are necessary to ensure vocational education aligns with the needs of industries, businesses, and employment.
This issue emerged during the National Seminar titled “Strengthening Comprehensive Vocational Education as the Pillar of the Indonesia Emas 2045 Vision,” held on Saturday (Oct. 19) at the Teaching Industry Learning Center (TILC) of UGM Vocational College (SV UGM).
The seminar, organized by SV UGM, featured three speakers: Saryadi, the Secretary of the Directorate General of Vocational Education at the Ministry of Education; Dr. Muhammad Aditya Warman, a member of the Supervisory Board of BPJS Ketenagakerjaan; and Dr. Aliridho Barakbah, the director of the Surabaya State Electronics Polytechnic.
Dean of SV UGM, Professor Agus Maryono, stated that vocational education should be based on applied sciences.
Professor Maryono explained why research in Indonesia lags behind other countries: the imbalance between pure scientific and applied research.
Professor Maryono also touched on companies’ perceptions of vocational students’ capability. Therefore, vocational education should be able to convince companies that its students are adequately prepared to enter the industrial sector.
On that occasion, he reported that of all the faculties at UGM, SV UGM contributed the most students accepted into the Indonesia International Student Mobility Award (IISMA) and the Certified Independent Study and Internship Program (MSIB).
Hundreds of other students participate in independent internships through their respective study programs.
“I believe this demonstrates vocational education’s achievements and future relevance,” he said.
Meanwhile, Saryadi emphasized the significance of vocational education in Indonesia’s educational roadmap.
According to Law Number 59 of 2024 on the National Long-Term Development Plan (RPJPN), vocational education will become a key pillar of Indonesia’s future human resources and productivity.
Implementing industry-based learning will make vocational education highly relevant to the needs of industries, businesses, and employment.
In addition, Saryadi discussed the challenges facing vocational education in Indonesia moving forward.
Among these challenges is the suboptimal role of universities as scientific developers and knowledge producers. He urged academics to continue the research they have developed and not stop at publication alone.
“Research results can be beneficial, impactful, and provide solutions to society,” said Saryadi.
Author: Tiefany
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Post-editor: Afif