National internship scheme offers fresh graduates UMP honorarium, Kepri sets benchmark for success
President Prabowo Subianto’s national apprenticeship program is being hailed as a breakthrough for fresh graduates, with the Riau Islands (Kepri) emerging as a pioneer after achieving a 97% job absorption rate since 2023.
National Launch With Local Success
The six-month apprenticeship initiative, announced by President Prabowo, provides participants with a monthly honorarium equivalent to their provincial minimum wage (UMP). The program aims to ease unemployment, bridge the education-to-work gap, and give graduates vital industry exposure.
Kepri’s Proven Model
Kepri had already rolled out a similar scheme in 2023 under Governor Ansar Ahmad’s leadership. According to Diky Wijaya, Head of the Provincial Manpower and Transmigration Office, nearly 97% of the 1,200 apprentices were offered jobs at their host companies. This high absorption rate underscores the value of collaboration between the government and businesses.
Collaborative Approach Pays Off
Kepri’s model included shared financing for participant transport between government and employers. This ensured apprentices not only gained practical skills but also improved their chances of long-term employment. For companies, the scheme provided access to job-ready talent tailored to industry needs.
Focus on Tourism by 2026
Looking ahead, Kepri will prioritize the tourism sector. Plans are in place for 2026 to place 500 apprentices across hotels in the province. This aligns with regional goals to cut unemployment while boosting one of Kepri’s most vital industries.
Funding Hopes Through APBN
Officials are optimistic about securing dedicated allocations from the 2026 state budget (APBN). “If Kepri receives direct support from the APBN, even more residents will have opportunities to enter the workforce,” Diky emphasized.
Economic And Social Impact
The apprenticeship program is showing early promise as a dual solution—empowering graduates with real work experience and strengthening industries with skilled manpower. In Kepri, the 97% absorption rate highlights how structured apprenticeships can drive inclusive economic growth and poverty reduction.
Prabowo’s apprenticeship program, modeled in part after Kepri’s successful pilot, represents a vital tool for tackling unemployment and preparing Indonesia’s workforce for the future. With strong government-business collaboration, the initiative could reshape opportunities for graduates nationwide while positioning Kepri as a benchmark for effective job absorption.
Sources: Batamnews (2025) , Lintas Kepri (2025)
Keywords: Prabowo Subianto, Apprenticeship Program, Kepri, Job Absorption, Fresh Graduates, Tourism Sector
