A new study from Universitas Djuanda shows that the Job Training Center (BLK) operated by the Bogor Regency Manpower Office has played a major role in improving workforce readiness and employment skills in Bogor Regency, West Java. The research found that the training program achieved a “Very Good” effectiveness rating with an overall score of 4.47 out of 5, indicating strong public satisfaction and measurable improvements in participant competencies.
The study was conducted by Anida Safinatunajah, Gotfridus Goris Seran, and Dede Syahrudin from Universitas Djuanda and published in the International Journal of Applied Research and Sustainable Sciences (IJARSS) in 2026. The findings are significant because Indonesia continues to face persistent unemployment challenges despite gradual economic recovery and workforce development efforts.
According to data cited in the study, Indonesia’s open unemployment rate reached 4.76 percent in February 2025 and slightly declined to 4.74 percent by November 2025. In Bogor Regency, however, unemployment remained relatively high, reaching 7.34 percent in 2024 and later increasing to 7.69 percent. The researchers noted that rising labor market competition has increased the importance of vocational training programs that can equip job seekers with practical and industry-relevant skills.
The Bogor Regency Job Training Center, known locally as Balai Latihan Kerja (BLK), was established to strengthen workforce competencies through free vocational training programs. These programs cover multiple technical and non-technical fields tailored to regional industrial needs and economic opportunities. Because the training is offered free of charge, participation remains high among residents from different social and economic backgrounds.
Researchers explained that the growing demand for practical job skills has made vocational institutions increasingly important in Indonesia’s workforce development strategy. Many employers now prioritize applicants who possess both technical competencies and workplace readiness, creating stronger demand for government-supported training initiatives.
To evaluate the effectiveness of the BLK program, the Universitas Djuanda research team surveyed 85 participants selected from a population of 556 trainees enrolled in 2025 training programs. The study used questionnaires, direct observations, and structured interviews to measure participant experiences and outcomes. Researchers assessed the program using four indicators developed by public policy expert Budiani: program targeting, program outreach, program objectives, and program monitoring.
The study found strong performance across all four indicators.
The highest score came from the Program Objectives category, which received an average score of 4.61. Participants stated that the training significantly improved their practical job skills, increased their professional knowledge, and strengthened their readiness to either enter the workforce or start independent businesses.
One participant interviewed by the researchers explained that the training materials were delivered systematically and were easy to understand. According to the participant, the practical learning model allowed trainees to directly apply what they learned through hands-on activities, helping them master new skills more quickly.
The Program Outreach category also received a high evaluation score of 4.52. Participants reported that information regarding registration procedures, training schedules, and program benefits was generally communicated clearly and understandably.
Meanwhile, the Program Targeting category scored 4.50. Researchers found that most participants believed the training programs matched their personal interests, educational backgrounds, and career needs. Many respondents also stated that the training provided direct benefits for improving employability and career preparation.
The lowest score among the four dimensions was recorded in the Program Monitoring category, which still achieved a “Very Good” rating with a score of 4.26. However, researchers identified post-training mentoring and follow-up support as areas needing improvement. Some participants expressed the need for stronger career guidance and more intensive support after completing the training program.
The study also highlighted several operational challenges affecting the effectiveness of the Job Training Center.
One of the biggest problems involves budget limitations from the central government. According to the researchers, financial constraints restricted the number of training programs that could be offered during each enrollment period. This situation limited public access because only a small number of vocational courses could be opened simultaneously.
Another challenge concerns inadequate facilities and infrastructure. Researchers reported shortages of training rooms and practical equipment, including heavy machinery used for hands-on training activities. Limited equipment reduced practice intensity and sometimes forced participants to share tools during training sessions, potentially lowering training effectiveness.
The dissemination of training information also remains uneven. At present, most announcements are distributed through Instagram and Facebook, making it difficult for some communities — particularly those with limited internet access — to obtain information about registration schedules and available programs.
In addition, researchers identified limited job vacancy information as another major issue. Although participants receive vocational skills training, many still face difficulties connecting with employers after graduation due to limited employment placement networks.
To overcome these challenges, the Bogor Regency BLK introduced several strategic improvements during 2025. The institution increased the number of training stages offered throughout the year despite budget pressures. The BLK also collaborated with accredited private training institutions and village-level organizations that possess better facilities and equipment.
Graduates additionally receive competency certificates based on Indonesia’s National Professional Certification Agency (BNSP) standards, improving their competitiveness in the labor market. To support employment placement, the BLK created WhatsApp groups that distribute job vacancy information and connect graduates with potential employers.
According to Anida Safinatunajah and fellow researchers from Universitas Djuanda, the findings demonstrate that vocational training programs can become an important policy instrument for reducing unemployment and strengthening workforce competitiveness in Indonesia. However, the researchers emphasized that stronger post-training support systems, wider information dissemination, and closer partnerships with industries remain necessary to maximize long-term employment outcomes.
The study also contributes to broader discussions about workforce development policy in Indonesia as the country continues adapting to industrial modernization, economic transformation, and changing labor market demands.
Author Profile
Anida Safinatunajah is a researcher from Universitas Djuanda specializing in workforce development, vocational education, and public administration. The study was co-authored by Gotfridus Goris Seran and Dede Syahrudin, academics from Universitas Djuanda whose expertise includes governance, labor policy, and human resource development.
Source
Anida Safinatunajah, Gotfridus Goris Seran, and Dede Syahrudin. “The Effectiveness of the Implementation of the Job Training Program at the Job Training Center, Bogor Regency Manpower Office, in 2025.” International Journal of Applied Research and Sustainable Sciences (IJARSS), Vol. 4 No. 4, 2026, pp. 433–450. DOI: https://doi.org/10.59890/ijarss.v4i4.236
0 Komentar