The Jakarta Provincial Government is once again underscoring the importance of human capital development through global-oriented skills training. Around 1,000 participants took part in the Japanese language training selection held by the Center for Industrial Training and Development, Pusat Pelatihan dan Pengembangan Industri (PPKPI) Pasar Rebo, in East Jakarta. The selection process drew direct attention from Vice Governor of Jakarta, Rano Karno, alongside Mayor of East Jakarta, Munjirin, signaling strong political backing. Their presence reinforced the message that workforce competitiveness remains a strategic priority.
Head of PPKPI Pasar Rebo, Siti Jamharoh, explained that this was the first time Japanese language training had been opened at the center. Previously, the institution only provided English and Korean language courses, making this expansion a notable shift. The overwhelming response from the public highlighted both rising interest in Japan and the growing appeal of overseas employment opportunities. The program was designed to align training with real demand in the global labor market.
From more than 1,000 applicants, only 20 candidates will be selected to undergo an intensive 72-day training program. The strict selection reflects the government’s intention to prioritize quality over quantity in preparing job-ready graduates. Successful participants are expected to be deployed to Japan across various sectors, including automotive manufacturing, culinary services, hospitality, and other industries. This pathway illustrates how vocational training can directly connect education with employment outcomes.
For many applicants, the program represents more than a training course, but a chance to transform their economic future. Participants cited both personal aspirations and family welfare as key motivations for competing in the highly selective process. The initiative shows how public training centers can function as bridges between local talent and international opportunities. In this context, the Japanese language program stands as a concrete example of how targeted skills development can expand Indonesia’s workforce horizons.
Alexander Jason – Redaksi
