Unemployment, Bad Portrait Of Education In Indonesia

JAKARTA The high unemployment rate in Indonesia is considered to reflect acute issues related to the education system, access to work, and national economic dynamics. In the midst of rapid economic and technological developments, unemployment remains a major challenge that hinders the progress of the nation. This problem shows weaknesses in economic planning and fundamental discrepancies in the education system.

Data from the Central Statistics Agency (BPS) shows an increase in the unemployment rate in Indonesia as of February 2025, with a total of 7.28 million unemployed. This figure increased by 0.08 million or around 83,450 people compared to February 2024. The open unemployment rate (TPT) was 4.76 percent, slightly lower than 4.82 percent in February 2024. Women's unemployment decreased from 4.60 percent to 4.41 percent, while male unemployment increased by 0.02 percentage points.

Not only low education communities are affected, but also university graduates. This situation underscores the gap between the quality of education and the needs of the labor market. We often hear complaints that without the best 'insiders' it is difficult to get jobs," said IAIN Kerinci academic Ali Marzuki Zebua.

Striking problems can also be seen in vocational high school graduates (SMK). Although designed to be ready for work, this group actually recorded the highest unemployment rate. The discrepancy between education curriculum and industrial needs is a major factor.

"The education system has not been able to bridge the competence of graduates with the needs of the labor market. As a result, many young people end up stuck in economic uncertainty due to an adaptive system," Ali added.

According to him, the low quality of education in Indonesia is at the root of the problem of increasing unemployment. This is because the existing curriculum is considered not to keep up with the times, plus the lack of vocational training, as well as less innovative teaching methods are the main obstacles.

In addition, the imbalance in access to education between urban and rural areas exacerbates the situation. In many remote areas, limited facilities, lack of quality educators, and distance to schools are significant obstacles. The younger generation from this region finds it difficult to compete in the increasingly competitive work market.

"The impact of the low quality of education is not only felt by individuals but also the national economy. Under-competitive workforce skills reduce productivity and hinder innovation," said Ali.

On the other hand, a recruitment system that prioritizes connections over competence adds to job seeker frustration. Dependence on insiders' create injustice, hinder the potential of talented individuals, and reduce job market efficiency.

He stated, to overcome unemployment, comprehensive reform is needed in education systems and employment policies. The steps that can be taken include adjusting the curriculum to be more relevant to industrial needs, strengthening vocational education, and integrating technology in the teaching and learning process. Cooperation between educational institutions and the industrial sector must be improved so that graduates are ready to face the job market," he added.

In addition, the government also needs to expand job training, provide skills certification, and ensure quality education can be accessed by all levels of society. No less important is government support for entrepreneurs, such as micro loans, business training, and market access.

Ali emphasized that unemployment reflects the weaknesses of Indonesia's education system and economic policy. However, this challenge opens up opportunities for significant changes. By improving the education system, improving labor skills, developing inclusive policies, and ensuring transparency in the recruitment process, Indonesia can overcome unemployment and optimally utilize potential human resources. This transformation is the key to bringing Indonesia to a brighter future," he concluded.

Cross-Sector Cooperation Is The Key To Overcoming Unemployment In Indonesia

University of Muhammadiyah Sidoarjo academic, Isna Fitria Agustina revealed, the increasing unemployment rate in Indonesia requires serious handling from the government. Because, even in an efficient economic condition, there will always be an natural' unemployment rate that cannot be eliminated.

According to him, there are several steps that the government can take to overcome the impact of rising unemployment amid economic uncertainty. First, community-based skills training through a proven effective vocational skills and education training program.

For example, the existence of female schools in villages offers economic assistance and training. It could also be with empowering youth with technical, entrepreneurial, and agricultural training that encourages youth to become entrepreneurs and open up new job opportunities," explained Isna.

Second, the development of MSMEs, where the government can help MSMEs by increasing their capacity and competitiveness by providing training, capital access, and assistance. Programs such as People's Business Credit (KUR) also help MSMEs obtain capital to start or develop their business.

Third, collaboration between the government, society, and the private sector. Isna explained, all elements of society, government, and industry need to work together to overcome unemployment with community empowerment. The form of cooperation includes providing training, access to capital, and market support for local products. Thus, empowerment of the community can create sustainable job opportunities and improve public welfare," he said.

The government, continued Isna, must also prepare adaptive human resources through cooperation between the government, universities, and industry. This is very important in managing human resources for the era of the Industrial Revolution 5.0. He said, collaboration in research, curriculum development, internships, and job placement will help prepare workers that suit industrial needs.

In addition to technical skills, the development of soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and conflict management is becoming increasingly important in a high-tech and global work environment. Companies should encourage employees to think creatively, give awards for new ideas, and provide platforms for sharing innovative ideas, "said Isna.