Jakarta – Indonesia’s Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology, Fauzan, has urged university students to cultivate a global mindset to enhance their competitiveness in the international job market. Speaking at the Career Development Center (CDC) Strengthening event on Wednesday, the Deputy Minister highlighted a notable presence of foreign workers, particularly from India, in high-tech sectors both domestically and abroad.
Fauzan attributed this trend to what he described as an “expansive spirit” and strong self-confidence among workers from competing nations, who readily pursue careers beyond their home countries. In contrast, many Indonesians are often constrained by cultural considerations related to family separation. He underscored the necessity for Indonesian universities to move beyond mere graduation by actively creating pathways for students to pursue international careers, stressing that Indonesia must be an active participant in globalization, not just a spectator.
He emphasized that academic institutions should function as hubs for overseas employment opportunities, fostering an environment where working abroad is recognized as a commendable accomplishment. This, he noted, fundamentally requires a global perspective among students.
As a practical illustration, Fauzan recalled the Indonesia–Japan Nursing program he initiated during his tenure as rector of Muhammadiyah University of Malang. This successful program provided early foreign language proficiency training to students, subsequently enabling hundreds of graduates to secure employment opportunities overseas.
Currently, the government is implementing initiatives that integrate academic study with international work placements, specifically targeting students impacted by natural disasters in Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra. These programs offer intensive language instruction, online academic modules, and assistance for students to work in Japan, ensuring they can continue their education while simultaneously providing financial support to their families.
Source: Original
