Indonesia's Youth Unemployment Crisis: Challenges and Solutions

The Struggle is Real

Recent graduates like Vian and Gagah, both 25, have been searching for jobs since graduating in 2022 without success. Their experience reflects a broader issue in Indonesia where young job seekers face multiple barriers to employment. The primary challenges include:

1. Experience Paradox: Employers demand experience, but candidates can't gain experience without being hired.
2. Age Limitations: Many companies have age restrictions that further limit opportunities for young graduates.
3. Skill Certification: While having additional certifications helps, it's not a guarantee of employment.

Government Initiatives and Their Limitations

Vian participated in the Prakerja program, which provides training and certification. While beneficial for skill development, it hasn't translated into job opportunities. This highlights a gap between training programs and actual employer needs.

The Bigger Picture

Indonesia faces a significant youth unemployment challenge. 75% of youth aged 15-24 are in informal employment, indicating a lack of stable job opportunities. The government needs to bridge the gap between education, training, and employment through more effective policies and industry collaboration.