Why are so many Indonesian graduates unemployed?

However, the reality is that graduates often cannot find jobs or jobs that match their expertise.

According to the Indonesian Statistics Agency (BPS), as of August 2024, the overall unemployment rate nationwide was 4.91%. Notably, the unemployment rate among vocational high school graduates reached 9.01%, and among university graduates it was 5.25%.

This figure reflects the deep gap between formal education and the actual needs of the labor market. The problem is not about competence or ambition, but rather that many people lack the skills and attitudes necessary in the ever-changing world of work.

Current vocational and university training programs in Indonesia focus heavily on STEM ( Science , Mathematics, Technology, Engineering) but are theory-heavy and lack practical application. As a result, students may possess high technical skills but are weak in soft skills.

Another key factor is the ability to be self-directed, proactive in decision-making, and mobilize resources to achieve personal goals. Students with high levels of self-reliance are often those who know how to plan their careers, proactively seek internship opportunities, dare to experiment, and learn from mistakes. In the context of Indonesia's still competitive and informal labor market, these competencies become particularly important.

In reality, STEM students are often vulnerable during economic downturns because they lack the skills to transition to new careers. When faced with change, those with strong self-reliance know how to adapt, respond positively, and maintain mental health. Therefore, developing a proactive mindset is not only a lesson in career development, but also a lesson in personal development.

Ali Yasfi, an education expert at Monash University in Australia, noted that Indonesia's problem is a common one for many countries. To address it, schools need to integrate vocational skills into their curricula through experiential learning, practical projects, and career guidance.

From the students' perspective, expert Ali emphasized that proactiveness is key. They should participate early in career-oriented activities, volunteering, or entrepreneurship, viewing these as opportunities to develop skills and build professional networks.

Employers and policymakers also play a crucial role. Businesses need to collaborate with universities in developing internship programs, sharing feedback, and providing input on training content. The government can provide support through policies encouraging blended learning, as well as investing in career infrastructure for students in rural areas and outlying universities.

“STEM education provides a foundation of knowledge and technical skills ranging from mathematics and programming to analytical thinking. However, according to UNESCO, only about 53% of graduates in Indonesia work in fields relevant to their majors. The rest are unemployed not because of a lack of competence, but because they are not prepared to translate their knowledge into practical value,” said Ali Yasfi, an education expert at Monash University, Australia.

According to University World News

Source: https://giaoducthoidai.vn/vi-sao-nhieu-sinh-vien-indonesia-that-nghiep-post752454.html