RI Govt launches program to prepare Gen Z for life beyond employment

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Population and Family Development Minister Wihaji said Generation Z needs preparation for a higher-quality future beyond employment, prompting his ministry to launch the Ready to Make Impact (Siap) Program.

The program aims to prepare young people, particularly university graduates, to better navigate the workforce and life after college, the minister said.

"Final-year students need to be prepared to have the ability to face various stages of life, starting from education, employment, family, to community life," Wihaji said here Monday.

The 2025 Intercensal Population Survey (SUPAS) released by Statistics Indonesia (BPS) showed that people aged 15-64 totaled about 196 million, or 68 percent of Indonesia's 284 million population.

"If we think about the country's future, then being ready for life becomes a primary need," he said.

Employment is only one part of the life cycle, so human resource development should not focus solely on labor absorption, Wihaji said.

Wihaji outlined five areas requiring preparation: maintaining health, continuing education, securing employment, building a family, and participating in community life.

The minister also highlighted Generation Z's distinct outlook amid rapid technological development and expanding access to information.

"Technology has no heart. Technological transformation does not erase human values, integrity, and social functions. Industry players need human resources with integrity, honesty, and a strong work ethic," he said.

Young people's aspirations also need to be considered to ensure sustainable working relationships, he said.

Through the Siap Program, the ministry brings together final-year students, universities, government agencies, and industry players to develop young people prepared for life.

Wihaji said the program had previously involved 893 final-semester students.

"This activity should not stop at a forum, but needs to provide follow-up and certainty for participants, including through industry involvement," Wihaji said.

Related news: Creative economy offers jobs for 82 percent unemployed Gen Z

Translator: Lintang, Kenzu
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
Copyright © ANTARA 2026