Manpower Ministry Urges Young People to Use AI to Boost Productivity

RRI.CO.ID, Jambi - Vice Minister of Manpower, Afriansyah Noor has encouraged young people to use artificial intelligence (AI) to increase productivity while developing the skills needed to adapt to rapid changes in the world of work.

Afriansyah said the development of AI, automation, and digital technology has transformed the way people work across various sectors. Young people need to respond to these changes by continuously developing their skills and adaptability so that technology can be used as an opportunity in the workplace.

“Do not be afraid of AI, but do not let yourselves fall behind because of AI. Make technology a tool to multiply your productivity,” Afriansyah said while delivering a public lecture at Batanghari University in Jambi on Saturday, September 12, 2026.

According to him, the skills needed in the workplace are determined not only by academic qualifications, but also by competence, character, and a willingness to keep learning. Therefore, preparedness for changes in the world of work needs to be developed while young people are still pursuing their education.

This challenge is increasingly important given the size of Indonesia’s labor force. According to Statistics Indonesia (BPS) data from February 2026, Indonesia’s labor force stood at 154.91 million, with an unemployment rate of 4.68 percent. Meanwhile, 19.44 percent of young people aged 15 to 24 were classified as NEET, meaning they were not in employment, education, or training.

He also encouraged young people to shift their mindset from simply seeking jobs to creating employment opportunities. He said that developing relevant skills and making use of technology could serve as a foundation for solving various problems while creating new opportunities.

To help young people prepare for changes in the world of work, the Ministry of Manpower is implementing various skills development programs, including the National Vocational Training Program (PVN), the National Internship Program (MagangHub), the Talent and Innovation Hub (TIH) for Indonesian Vocational Talent Development, and training through Vocational Training and Productivity Centers (BPVPs).

These efforts are in line with the 2025–2029 National Medium-Term Development Plan (RPJMN), which aims to develop an adaptive workforce with global competitiveness. Young people are expected to harness technological advances, including AI, to increase productivity and play an active role in the changing world of work and Indonesia’s development.