Vocational Education Needs to Support the Development of the Mandalika Special Economic Zone, Lombok, Indonesia
Author (s) : Rahma Fibriani Dili Putri; Untung Waluyo; Sudirman Wilian; Mohamad Mustari; Fahruddin
Institution : University of Mataram, Indonesia
Category : Article, IJMMU
Topics : Vocational Education; Special Economic Zone; Tourism Industry; Vocational Curriculum;
Industrial Collaboration
This study aims to analyze the needs of vocational education relevant to the leading sectors in the Mandalika Special Economic Zone (SEZ), West Nusa Tenggara. With a descriptive qualitative approach, data were obtained through in-depth interviews, direct observation, and document analysis of stakeholders in the tourism industry and vocational education institutions. The results of the study revealed three main focuses: (1) the types of vocational education that are most needed include hospitality, culinary, and tour guides; (2) there is a gap between the curriculum applied in vocational schools and industry needs, especially in soft skills such as attitude, communication, and English language skills; and (3) the lack of readiness of vocational education institutions in teacher training, competency certification, and industry involvement in curriculum development. These findings emphasize the importance of a collaborative approach between the government, industry, and educational institutions in designing a vocational education system that is responsive to the dynamics of the local and regional labor market. This research provides a real contribution to the formulation of vocational education policies that are integrated with tourism-based regional development. The practical implications of this research are that vocational education institutions need to strengthen partnerships with industry, revise the curriculum periodically, and improve the capacity of teachers and students through ongoing training, certification, and internship programs.
Article can be downloaded here >> Vocational Education Needs to Support the Development of the Mandalika Special Economic Zone, Lombok, Indonesia
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