Boosting Workforce Absorption, Labour Minister Targets 70,000 Participants for National Vocational Training in 2026

Minister of Manpower (Menaker) Yassierli is targeting 70,000 participants to join the 2026 National Vocational Training (PVN)—a vocational training programme based on link-and-match—to improve workforce readiness that matches industry requirements.

Yassierli stated this during a visit to the implementation of PVN Batch I for 2026 at the Bandung Major Vocational Training and Productivity Centre (BBPVP), West Java, on Friday (19/4/2026).

“The PVN programme is designed with link-and-match to industry needs. Our focus is to enhance skills so that graduates can be absorbed into the workforce,” Yassierli said in a press release received by Kompas.com on Sunday (19/4/2026).

He explained that PVN 2026 is being implemented nationally and is attended by 10,405 participants.

At BBPVP Bandung, 512 participants are undergoing training tailored to labour market needs.

The training programme covers forklift operation, barista skills, bread and pastry making, as well as three-dimensional design based on computer-aided design (CAD).

“The training is also conducted through a project-based learning scheme for the installation of smart building integration systems,” Yassierli clarified.

In addition, participants receive various benefits such as free training, lunch, transport assistance, protection for work accident insurance and death benefits, up to training certificates and competency certificates issued by the National Professional Certification Agency (BNSP). In certain schemes, participants also receive dormitory facilities.

Yassierli added that the training is prioritised for high school/Senior Secondary Vocational School (SMK) graduates equivalent without any fees.

“We hope that participants not only possess skills but are also ready to contribute to the industrial world,” said Yassierli.