Indonesia Expands National Internship Program to 77,000 Fresh Graduates

Government Initiative Bridges Education and Employment

The Indonesian Ministry of Manpower has officially launched the second batch of its national internship program, accepting 62,000 fresh graduates into the scheme. This brings the total number of participants to 77,000 when combined with the 15,000 from the first batch. The program is designed to provide practical work experience and bridge the gap between academic knowledge and industry requirements.

Key Program Details

The national internship program involves 4,600 companies and 47 government ministries/institutions, offering paid internships with wages based on provincial or regency minimum wage standards. The program is specifically designed for recent graduates, with eligibility limited to those who have completed their education within the past year. The selection process has been rigorous, with some positions attracting up to 1,000 applicants per role.

Government and Industry Participation

The program has garnered significant participation from both the private sector and government institutions. Minister of Manpower Yassierli and Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto were present at the launch event, emphasizing the program's importance. Airlangga highlighted that the government's substantial investment in the recruitment process underscores the program's potential to create valuable human capital.

Economic and Social Impact

This initiative represents a significant effort to address youth unemployment and enhance workforce readiness. By providing practical experience and exposing graduates to professional environments, the program aims to improve employability and reduce the challenges faced by new entrants in the job market. The six-month investment in these interns is seen as a strategic move to build a more capable workforce for Indonesia's future economic needs.