Labor Vice Minister Says National Vocational Training Aims to Meet Industry Workforce Needs

PADANG, Indonesia, July 24 — Indonesia's Deputy Minister of Manpower, Afriansyah Noor, said the government's National Vocational Training Program (PVN) is designed to prepare a skilled workforce that meets the evolving needs of businesses and industry as the labor market continues to change.

Speaking at the opening of the third batch of the 2026 National Vocational Training Program at the Padang Vocational Training and Productivity Center (BPVP) in West Sumatra on Friday, Afriansyah said vocational training is an investment in developing productive, job-ready workers with competencies aligned to industry demand.

The program is attended by 982 participants across BPVP Padang, service centers in Jambi and Sawahlunto, and several regional training units in West Sumatra and Jambi.

The Ministry of Manpower aims to train 300,000 participants nationwide through its vocational training programs in 2026 as part of efforts to expand access to competency-based training and strengthen workforce readiness.

The ministry is also providing reskilling and upskilling programs for workers affected by layoffs and individuals seeking to improve their skills, enabling them to re-enter the labor market or start their own businesses.

Afriansyah said vocational training should be tailored to each region's economic strengths. In West Sumatra, training focuses on the services sector, trade, and micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), while partnerships with businesses are expected to improve graduate employment and productivity.

At BPVP Padang, 85 participants are enrolled in six training courses, including barista, commercial food processing, housekeeping, 3D CAD drafting, FCAW welding, and bridal makeup. Five additional programs—including garment making, construction occupational safety, residential air-conditioning maintenance, and surveying—are scheduled to begin on July 27.

Afriansyah also encouraged Indonesians to broaden their career aspirations beyond the civil service, emphasizing that opportunities are available in the private sector and entrepreneurship for those equipped with relevant skills.(Gusti)