TANGERANG —— Amidst the hustle and bustle of the capital, there are 7.2 million pairs of eyes looking to the future with anxiety. According to data from the Ministry of Manpower (Kemnaker) for 2025, this figure for open unemployment paints a stark picture of the struggles faced by our younger generation. Behind these statistics lie dreams that are often thwarted by a lack of skills and limited job opportunities.
However, hope must not be lost. The realisation that education and skills are the best way to break the cycle of poverty underpins the work of the Institut Kemandirian (IK) at Dompet Dhuafa. On Tuesday (30 June 2026), an event brimming with positive energy took place in Jakarta. Entitled “Vocational Insight 2026: Unlock Your Potential, Turning Skills into Career Opportunities”, this event marked the beginning of a new chapter in the lives of dozens of young people.
The 57 participants in attendance were faces full of hope; resilient young people currently gaining skills through programmes such as Motorcycle Servicing, the Skilled Trades School, and Sewing. Also present were alumni from various fields—ranging from baristas and barbers to massage therapists—who are now preparing to embark on a path towards true self-reliance.
This year’s Vocational Insight event felt particularly emotional and historic. Concrete steps were taken, moving beyond mere classroom discussions. On that day, the Institut Kemandirian officially launched its Labour Programme to Japan—a golden opportunity for alumni to prove that young people from underprivileged backgrounds are capable of competing and thriving in the international market.
Not only that, but a more secure future was signalled by the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with several strategic off-taker partners, such as Tauberes, Kita Jahitin and Setia Motor. A new facility, the Motorcycle Competency Testing Centre (TUK), was also officially launched to ensure their technical skills are professionally certified.
“Pentahelix collaboration is essential to strengthen this programme,” emphasised Asep Hendriana, Chair of the Board of the Umar Usman GREAT Edunesia Foundation.
“It’s like a broom made of twigs: if there’s only one twig, it’s easily broken and of little use. However, if we combine them, their strength will bring tremendous benefits for the employment prospects of our graduates,” he added.
The most moving session took place when motivational speaker Supardi Lee took to the stage to lead a session on cultivating a growth mindset. For an hour, the room was both silent and buzzing with renewed determination. Participants were encouraged to look deep within themselves, overcome their feelings of inferiority, and realise that within them lay extraordinary potential, ready to break through economic limitations.
Economic independence is not merely about how skilfully they can handle a screwdriver or operate a sewing machine, but rather about character, mental resilience, and readiness to compete in the modern world.
Now in its 21st year, Dompet Dhuafa’s Independence Institute remains steadfast in upholding the values of “TEKUN” (Skilled, Work, Endeavour, Move Up). The institute believes that changing a person’s fate must begin by giving them a fishing rod, not just the fish.
“The Independence Institute is ready to provide a range of vocational training courses with practical curricula directly linked to the world of work and entrepreneurship,” explained M. Imam Baihaqi, Training and Operations Manager at the Independence Institute.
“Our ultimate goal is to accompany them on their journey of growth, so that one day these trainees will transform from being mustahik (beneficiaries) into muzakki (those who give zakat),” continued Imam.
Thus, every contribution, prayer and act of kindness you channel through Dompet Dhuafa is the primary fuel for this engine of goodness. Thanks to your generosity, these young people no longer view the future with fear, but with eyes that sparkle with confidence. Let us join together to support them in becoming empowered, self-reliant and of strong character, for the sake of a more prosperous Indonesia. (Dompet Dhuafa)
Text and photos: Institut Kemandirian
Editor: Dhika