The COVID-19 Pandemic, Structural Transformation, and Training Programme Outcomes in Indonesia
Date:
18 June 2024Category:
COVID-19, Education, Training, and Human CapitalType:
Discussion PapersTags:
online training, Kartu Prakerja, internet access, perceived productivity, IndonesiaPrint Article:
The Government of Indonesia introduced Program Kartu Prakerja to develop workforce competencies, increase workforce productivity and competitiveness, and develop entrepreneurship in the country. The programme also responded to the COVID-19 pandemic-induced increase in unemployment and other labour market consequences. This study assessed the impact of Kartu Prakerja and internet access on the improvement of perceived competencies, productivity, competitiveness, and entrepreneurial skills. It used an online survey of 2,156 individuals and a combination of econometrics methods to evaluate the impact. It found that the programme significantly improved competencies, productivity, competitiveness, and entrepreneurship skills. Some personal characteristic variables – such as age, sex, and schooling – also affected optimal outcomes. Since the programme was conducted online during the pandemic, internet access – proxied by the number of telecommunications towers in each district – was found to have played an important role. Through better internet access, competencies, productivity, and competitiveness can be improved. Thus, the government should ensure that all regions in Indonesia have good internet access and other relevant infrastructure.
