Pertamina provides energy literacy and workforce readiness through industry education

Early introduction to the industrial world is an important step in preparing a competent young generation. Penajam Paser Utara (ANTARA) - PT Pertamina Patra Niaga (PPN) Balikpapan Refinery, East Kalimantan, is providing energy literacy and industrial understanding to senior high school students through the “Universitas Pertamina Goes to Kilang RU V” activity. “The energy industry requires human resources capable of adapting to technological changes and operational dynamics,” said Manager of Engineering & Development at PT PPN Balikpapan Refinery, Febrian Dwi Prastyo, on Wednesday, when providing information about the activity in Balikpapan. “Early introduction to the industrial world is an important step in preparing a competent young generation,” he added. The programme featured presentations on energy-based higher education, career opportunities, and an overview of refinery operations to 130 student participants from various schools in Balikpapan City. The energy industry requires human resources that are not only academically competent but also adaptive and understand field operational dynamics, thereby opening students’ perspectives to the real world of work. Participants were also introduced to study programmes at Universitas Pertamina designed to meet the needs of professional personnel in the national energy sector. Higher education needs to be directly connected to industrial practice so that graduates are ready to face workforce demands, explained Manager of Career Development and Alumni Relations at Universitas Pertamina, Tegar Nurwahyu Wijaya; cross-disciplinary understanding in facing energy transformation is important. He provided a real picture to the students that higher education does not only focus on theory but is also directly connected to industrial practice. Universitas Pertamina is present to prepare outstanding talents ready to contribute to the energy sector and national development. “The activity provides a new picture of the world of higher education and the energy industry,” said one participant from SMAN 1 Balikpapan, Cleo. The activity is very adequate and opens insights into the world of higher education and industry, she continued, thus making her more motivated to continue her education at Universitas Pertamina. Pertamina Patra Niaga Balikpapan Refinery stated that it will continue to support educational activities that provide added value to the community, especially in human resource development in East Kalimantan.