Closing the MPKMB Series at IPB University Vocational School, Minister of Manpower: M-Shaped Competency is Now Needed
Indonesia faces serious challenges in the employment sector. Only 15 percent of the national workforce has a vocational education background, while the Human Development Index (HDI) and labor productivity still lag behind other ASEAN countries.
This situation was highlighted by Indonesia’s Minister of Man Power (Menaker), Prof Yassierli, during the closing ceremony of the 62nd MPKMB at IPB University’s Vocational School.
“You need to prepare yourselves better,” the Minister emphasized to the MPKMB participants gathered at the Vocational School Gymnasium on Wednesday (8/13).
The Minister highlighted the importance of transforming workforce competencies. While the I-shaped model, which focuses on a single skill, was once relevant, it has now evolved into T-shaped, π-shaped, and M-shaped models, which emphasize three core skills and one general skill.
“The M-shaped competency model is what the industry is seeking. Human resources (HR) that can adapt to changing market needs and evolving demands,” he explained.
Prof Yassierli emphasized that to address future challenges, additional competencies that need to be mastered include digital skills and people-centered skills. In addition to technical skills, vocational graduates also need to master soft skills and cognitive skills such as independence, creativity, and innovation.
Before the Minister’s public lecture, drh Sukma Kamajaya, MM, Director of Career Development, Entrepreneurship, and Alumni Relations at IPB University, echoed the same sentiment. He also stressed the importance of being a multitalented individual.
“It’s not just about hard skills, but soft skills also help build character. A high spirit will find its way; the target is not to be achieved but to be jumped over or surpassed,” he said.
drh Sukma stressed that the dominant factor in someone’s success lies in their character and how they carry out every task with integrity. To compete in the professional world, it is not enough to excel in just one field.
During this event, drh Sukma also explained various programs offered by IPB University to support students and alumni in competing at the career level.
The MPKMB 62 Vocational School event at IPB University was symbolically closed by the Minister alongside the Vice Rector for Education and Student Affairs, the Dean, and the Deputy Deans of the Vocational School at IPB University, marking the end of the campus orientation series for new students. (*/Rz) (IAAS/FMT)
