In 2026, Parents Need to Guide Teenagers, Not Just Choose a Career

JAKARTA - The Chairperson of the Indonesian Child Protection Commission (KPAI) for the 2017-2022 period, Prof. Susanto, argues that starting this year, parents need to guide teenagers, not only to choose their ideals, but to prepare their own capacity as the world of work changes.

"2026 is more dynamic and challenging, even uncertain. Because the world continues to change, many jobs are lost and new jobs that were previously unthinkable emerge," said the Professor of the University of Al-Qur'an Higher Education (PTIQ) Jakarta, reported by ANTARA, Friday, January 2, 2026.

According to Susanto, for children who have reached the age of 15, this time is no longer just a time to find their identity, but a phase of forming the foundation of a long-term career.

Moreover, the world of work is increasingly influenced by artificial intelligence, creative economy, and global collaboration.

He also conveyed that the future career is no longer centered on positions, but on values and contributions.

Therefore, he said, teenagers need to be trained to ask, "What issues do I care about?", "What problems do I want to help solve?", or "In what role do I want to be useful?"

"This approach makes educational and career choices more meaningful, sustainable, and even promising," said Susanto.

In addition, he continued, considering that currently a diploma without skills is not enough, children who have reached the age of 15 should start honing their ability to quickly learn new things, think systematically and analytically, communicate across media (oral, written, digital), technology literacy and basic artificial intelligence (AI), as well as collaboration and self-leadership.

Furthermore, he reminded the importance of making schools as a career laboratory and an experimental space to train leadership and hone the ability to solve problems.

Another thing that is also recommended is to shift from passive users to active creators, for example by writing opinions, making educational videos, designing simple designs, building a digital portfolio according to interests, or taking online classes that are directed, not just trends.

"A superior career is built on self-awareness. Teenagers need to be accustomed to evaluating what works, and not identifying strengths and areas for development, formulating realistic short-term goals, and regular reflection to prevent future misdirection," said Susanto.

He also asked parents and teachers to accompany children.

He assessed that the best support was not by directing rigidly, but by asking questions that stimulated the urge to think, giving space to try and fail, and being an example in the attitude of lifelong learning.

"This collaboration creates independent and confident teenagers. A brilliant career is not built instantly. It grows from the habit of learning, the courage to try, and the ability to adapt that starts early," said Susanto.