Minister: University graduates must master digital skills

Manpower Minister Yassierli has stressed that university graduates need to build increasingly integrated digital competencies and skills to face a constantly changing world of work.

In a statement in Jakarta on Monday, the minister said that in addition to mastering competencies in their field of study, graduates need to strengthen digital skills such as artificial intelligence (AI), communication, and other skills relevant to industry needs.

“Core skills alone are not enough. So it is not just a diploma, not just a competency certificate, but now the trend is integrated skills. The world of work requires integrated competencies, particularly integrated with digital skills and AI,” said Yassierli.

He explained that technological changes and industry needs mean the world of work no longer simply seeks graduates based on the name of their study programme, but based on the combination of competencies they can offer.

The minister cited the changing needs through the emergence of jobs such as big data analyst and product developer, which are not directly identical to the name of any particular study programme.

“Now big data analysts are sought after. Product developers are sought after. Is there a study programme for product developer or big data analyst? Because what is required is core skills and integrated skills,” he explained.

“If you are now taking a particular study programme, be serious about it. Believe that it is a journey that must be built. Study, practise, intern, obtain certificates, and build a portfolio,” he said.

Therefore, the minister believes students need to start designing their competency track record from the beginning of their studies. Learning experiences, practice, internships, certifications, and portfolios built during their time at university can become part of the track record offered to the world of work.

“A CV is not made, but a CV is designed from a blank sheet of paper. We want to know what our CV will contain in three or four years’ time; that must be designed,” he said.

Minister Yassierli also expressed hope that universities will continue to strengthen learning that equips students with competencies in their field as well as skills relevant to technological developments and the needs of the world of work.