Indonesia Makes National Apprenticeship Programme a Priority to Narrow Skills Gap

YOGYAKARTA, STUPA NEWS — Indonesia has made its National Apprenticeship Programme a government priority aimed at narrowing the gap between university graduates' skills and the needs of industry, Manpower Minister Yassierli said.

The six-month programme gives participants practical work experience and training, with allowances set in line with local minimum wages.

Speaking during a visit to the second batch of the National Apprenticeship Programme at PT Taman Wisata Candi Borobudur, Prambanan and Ratu Boko in Yogyakarta on Wednesday, Yassierli said direct work experience was important in helping graduates adjust their skills to industry requirements.

A total of 40 participants are taking part in branding and marketing apprenticeships at the company.

Yassierli said completing the programme did not necessarily mean participants would be hired by the companies where they trained. The experience, skills and professional networks gained during the six-month programme could improve their prospects in the labour market, he said.

The programme also gives companies an opportunity to identify potential workers whose skills match their needs.

"Those who perform well and have the right competencies will have a greater chance of being hired," Yassierli said.

He said companies could recruit participants who demonstrate strong performance and relevant skills, making the apprenticeship programme a potential channel for employers to identify and develop new talent. (Sri Lestari)