RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping labor market demands.

In response, the Ministry of Manpower (Kemnaker) has partnered with Microsoft, Bina Nusantara University (Binus University), and GreatNusa to strengthen Indonesian workers’ AI competencies and expand access to digital job markets.

Manpower Minister Yassierli announced that the collaboration will be realized through the AI Career Boost Day 2026 event, held at the ministry’s headquarters in Jakarta. The program features an online job fair alongside training and skill‑building sessions focused on AI, which is increasingly sought after by industry.

“This collaboration goes beyond hosting an online job fair. It also aims to boost knowledge and skills regarding AI,” Minister Yassierli said on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

He noted that technological changes have prompted companies to seek employees capable of leveraging AI. Developing these competencies is therefore essential to maintain Indonesia’s workforce competitiveness amid digital transformation.

Minister Yassierli pointed out that Hyderabad, India, has seen an 11 percent rise in recruitment for digital and AI roles, underscoring strong global demand for professionals skilled in AI technologies.

Microsoft has already provided digital skills training to 50,000 participants, with similar programs set to expand. The ministry is also optimizing 43 vocational training centers nationwide as hubs for skills development, offering both in‑person and online training to reach wider audiences.

“Through these training methods, the public gains broader access to enhance their competencies in line with industry requirements,” Minister Yassierli said.

Alongside digital transformation, the ministry is developing the Siap Kerja (Ready to Work) platform in partnership with companies. The platform connects job seekers with industry needs through a digital recruitment system.

Director General of Manpower Placement Development and Job Opportunity Expansion Sugeng Heri Suseno added that the two‑day AI Career Boost Day 2026 event will be held again in August and September.

He emphasized that AI is not merely a supporting technology but a skill increasingly determining workforce competitiveness. Beyond technical proficiency, industry also requires talent with analytical, communication, and digital literacy skills.

“AI has the potential to create millions of new jobs. Therefore, the workforce needs to equip itself with skills that align with industry developments,” Sugeng said.

The job fair features companies from diverse sectors, including banking, manufacturing, food, property, transportation, and warehousing. In addition to recruitment opportunities, the event offers learning sessions led by industry and technology practitioners.

GreatNusa Chief Operating Officer Nita Felia stressed that AI should be used as a tool to boost productivity and competitiveness, not merely as a trend. She said upskilling must transform how individuals work and solve problems, rather than focusing only on certificates.

“Certificates are important, but they are not the ultimate goal. The ultimate goal is transformation in how a person works, their problem‑solving abilities, increased productivity, and the job opportunities attainable after learning,” Nita said.

She added that collaboration among government, industry, universities, and training providers is crucial to expand access to AI learning, particularly in regions still facing a digital divide.

Through this collaboration, the Ministry of Manpower hopes the Indonesian workforce will not only adapt to AI advancements but also gain greater competitiveness to meet future job market demands. ***