[Unpad Media Channel] The Acting Director General of Vocational Education, Tatang Muttaqin, S.Sos., M.Ed., Ph.D., emphasized that vocational education in Indonesia aims to produce well-trained graduates by continuously advancing student skills and competencies.
“What needs to be considered is how higher education institutions are evolving—whether they should be optimized or transformed. The options include focusing on strategic ambitions and paying attention to what is crucial, as each vocational program has its own strengths,” stated Tatang while speaking at the “#2 Vocational School Sharing Session” held at the Vocational Building, Unpad Jatinangor Campus, on Monday, August 26th, 2024.
Tatang mentioned several strategies to address these goals, such as improving capabilities and developing the best models for each program. Moreover, he highlighted that professors need to adapt to the increasingly critical nature of students concerning changes. Academic programs should also consider industry needs while ensuring appropriate funding.
“What we want to emphasize is the utilization of technology, integration across levels, contextual learning, micro-credentials, and a lifelong learning spirit. Services such as initial development, upskilling, refining, and reskilling should be continuously implemented,” Tatang said.
The discussion was also attended by the Vice-Rector for Academic and Student Affairs Prof. Arief S. Kartasasmita, the Dean of Vocational School at Unpad Dr. Kurniawan Saefullah, SE., M.Ec., and the Vice Dean of Vocational School at Unpad, Dr. Risna Resnawaty, M.P. Additionally, Prof. Dr. R. Widya Setiabudi Sumawinata, M.T., M.Si., the Dean of the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, and faculty members from Vocational School at Unpad were present.
In his opening speech, Prof. Arief stated that the purpose of the discussion was to align perceptions regarding the implementation of the Vocational School at Unpad. He expressed hope that the discussion would contribute to advancing vocational education in Indonesia through the efforts of Unpad’s Vocational School.
“Hopefully, this will serve as a motivation for all of us to move forward, and Vocational School at Unpad can contribute significantly to the development of vocational education in Indonesia, as vocational education is currently receiving exceptional attention,” said Prof. Arief. (SA)*
