Performance of the Regional Job Training Center (UPT BLK) in Reducing Urban Unemployment: Evidence from Palangka Raya City, Indonesia
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.53905/Veritas.v1i02.7Keywords:
UPT BLK, active labor market programs, urban unemployment, vocational training, public sector performanceAbstract
Purpose of the study: Unemployment remains a persistent structural challenge in developing economies, particularly in secondary cities of Indonesia where vocational skill mismatches are pronounced. Palangka Raya, the provincial capital of Central Kalimantan, recorded the highest Open Unemployment Rate (OUR) in the province in 2017, with 9,904 registered unemployed persons and a rate of 56.18% attributable to workers with only secondary education levels. This study evaluates the institutional performance of the Technical Implementation Unit of the Job Training Center (UPT BLK) under the Palangka Raya Manpower Office in reducing urban unemployment through active labor market programs (ALMPs).
Methodology: A qualitative descriptive approach was employed. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with the Head of UPT BLK and section heads, structured observations of program activities, and documentary analysis of training records, budget reports, and participant data. Thematic analysis was applied to interpret the findings.
Results: The UPT BLK demonstrated optimal institutional readiness across five dimensions: budget preparation, availability of training equipment, qualified instructors, curriculum quality, and physical facilities. In 2018, the unit successfully implemented multiple vocational training programs across diverse skill sectors, enrolling hundreds of participants. However, the program scope, targeting mechanisms, and private-sector linkages were identified as areas requiring enhancement.
Conclusions: While UPT BLK's operational performance meets established benchmarks, expanding the training typology, strengthening school-based socialization for final-year students, and formalizing apprenticeship partnerships with the private sector are critical for maximizing unemployment reduction impact. These findings have policy implications for vocational training governance in Indonesian regional cities.
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