Minister of Manpower: National Vocational Training Prepares Graduates for the Workforce

Minister of Manpower (Menaker) Yassierli has emphasised that the National Vocational Training Programme 2026 is designed to ensure graduates possess skills aligned with industrial needs, making them better prepared to enter the workforce. “This programme is crafted for link and match with industry requirements. Our focus is on enhancing skills so that graduates can be absorbed into the job market,” said Menaker Yassierli in his statement in Jakarta on Monday. He explained that the programme will be implemented nationwide, involving 10,405 participants across 21 Balai Latihan Kerja (BLK) training centres, 13 training units under the Directorate General of Vocational Training and Productivity Development of the Ministry of Manpower, and 46 BLK technical implementation units. Specifically at the Bandung Vocational Training and Productivity Development Centre (BBPVP Bandung), the first batch of the 2026 National Vocational Training is attended by 512 participants undertaking various skill trainings relevant to current labour market needs. The trainings at BBPVP Bandung include forklift operation, barista skills, bread and pastry making, as well as three-dimensional design using computer-aided design (CAD). Furthermore, training is also conducted through a project-based learning scheme for the installation of smart building integration systems. To support the implementation, BBPVP Bandung has prepared all facilities, infrastructure, and instructors optimally to facilitate industry-based training. In addition, participants receive various benefits, including free training, lunch, transport assistance, work accident insurance, death benefits, training certificates, and competency certificates from the National Professional Certification Agency (BNSP). For certain schemes, participants also receive dormitory facilities. Menaker Yassierli added that in the 2026 fiscal year, the Ministry of Manpower targets 70,000 participants to join vocational training funded through the state budget, prioritised for high school/SMK graduates equivalent without any fees. “The hope is that participants not only gain skills but are also ready to contribute to the industrial world,” he stated.