ILO and Indonesia Partner to Enhance Skills of Public Employment Service Officers Amid Energy Transition

Muce Mochtar, ILO’s National Project Coordinator for IKI JET in Indonesia, highlighted the significant impact of Indonesia's commitment to achieving Net Zero Emissions by 2060.

The International Labour Organization (ILO), through its Innovation Regions for a Just Energy Transition (IKI JET) project, in collaboration with Indonesia's Ministry of Manpower, has conducted a series of training programs aimed at improving the capacity of public employment service officers. These programs are designed to assist local stakeholders in navigating the regional transition to renewable energy and managing the impacts on the labor market.

The training, which took place in South Sumatra from July 30 to August 1 and in East Kalimantan from August 20 to 22, saw the participation of 50 public employment service officers, including staff from vocational training centers, manpower offices, and educational institutions. The sessions focused on enhancing skills in building partnerships, strengthening technical functions, and improving relations with both employers and job seekers.

Muce Mochtar, ILO’s National Project Coordinator for IKI JET in Indonesia, highlighted the significant impact of Indonesia's commitment to achieving Net Zero Emissions by 2060. This goal will lead to substantial investment in the renewable energy sector and a decline in fossil-fuel-based activities, affecting local economies and employment. In this context, the need for re-skilling and up-skilling workers is critical.

“The public employment service officers play a crucial role in understanding labor market changes and providing essential services to both industry and job seekers,” remarked Mochtar. “They must be well-equipped to offer valuable advice and support as the labor market evolves rapidly.”

Muhammad T. Afriady, a public employment service officer from South Sumatra, expressed his appreciation for the training, noting that improved communication and collaboration skills are vital for addressing the needs of job seekers affected by the transition from coal to renewable energy. “The training materials were highly relevant to my daily tasks, and I’m grateful for the enhanced skills I’ve gained,” he said.

Okta Ariyani, another officer from South Sumatra, emphasized the importance of attentive listening and clear explanations in assisting job seekers. “The training provided practical tips that will help me better serve those who have lost their jobs and are seeking new employment,” Ariyani noted.

The training programs concluded with participants developing action plans to address specific regional needs. For instance, the Manpower Office of Kutai Timur Regency in East Kalimantan aims to enhance the employability of young job seekers by providing relevant training to 100 students by 2025. Additionally, the Provincial Manpower Office of East Kalimantan has set a goal to empower 300 women aged 40-49 through skills training and certification within the year.

Muce Mochtar commended the enthusiasm and commitment of the participants. “The ILO remains dedicated to supporting Public Employment Services affected by the energy transition. We are encouraged by the action plans developed and look forward to seeing the positive outcomes of these targeted programs,” he concluded.