Govt trains vocational students for telecom network jobs

Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs is preparing vocational high school (SMK) students to become skilled local workers capable of building, maintaining, and repairing telecommunications networks in their respective regions.

One of the ministry’s initiatives is the provision of fiber optic network training for SMK students in Medan, North Sumatra, as part of the government’s strategy to expand internet access while creating new employment opportunities.

“In the future, we want fiber optic networks in various regions to no longer depend on workers being deployed from Java or other areas,” Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs Meutya Hafid said during a Fiber Optic Network Training program for students at SMK Multi Karya in Medan, North Sumatra, on Saturday.

According to the minister, demand for skilled workers in the digital infrastructure sector will continue to increase as society becomes more reliant on internet connectivity.

She cited data showing that Indonesians spend an average of eight hours online each day. Of the country’s approximately 230 million internet users, around 60-70 percent are young people.

“Young people are the largest users of this technology. Therefore, we hope they will not only become technology users but also play a role in maintaining the infrastructure that supports connectivity,” she said.

Hafid emphasized that the government remains committed to expanding internet connectivity to areas that still have limited access to digital services.

As telecommunications networks continue to expand, the need for skilled workers capable of installing, repairing, and maintaining telecommunications infrastructure will also grow, she added.

The government aims to increase fixed broadband penetration to 50 percent of the population during the 2025–2029 period. Currently, the penetration rate stands at approximately 25 percent.

The training program was attended by 40 participants, who received instruction in fiber optic network installation, splicing, testing, and maintenance.

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Translator: Farhan, Kenzu

Editor: Primayanti

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