Vocational School Student Skills should be Linked, Matched with Industry, President Jokowi Says

President Jokowi and First Lady Iriana Jokowi observe learning and teaching activities at state vocational high school (SMKN) 2 in Central Bengkulu province, Thursday (07/20). (Photo by: BPMI of Presidential Secretariat/Kris)

President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo encouraged vocational schools to hone skills of the students and adjust it with needs of the industry.

The statement was made by the President when observing learning and teaching activities at state vocational high school (SMKN) 2 in Central Bengkulu province on the second day of working visit to Bengkulu province.

“Students here can be the one who manufacture cars or motorcycles since vocational schools will hone their skills according with needs of the industry or, even better, for entrepreneurship,” he said.

He went on to say that good connection between schools and industries needs to be well established so the students can have skills that are needed by the industry.

On that occasion, President Jokowi and First Lady Iriana Jokowi observed teaching and learning practices in Motorcycle Engineering (TSM) and Light Vehicle Engineering (TKR) classes.

Based on his observation, facilities at the classroom are not adequate. Therefore, he called for additional of fossil-fueled and electric vehicles to support learning practices at the school.

“I will send cars, motorcycles for learning practices. I will also send electric vehicles,” he remarked.

After visiting the school, President Jokowi is slated to join Community Movement to Prevent Stunting held in Srikuncoro community health centers (Puskesmas).

Afterwards, he will inaugurate Bengkulu – Taba Penanjung toll road, visit Kepahiang market to distribute social assistances to the market traders, and visit Kepahiang General Hospital (RSUD).

Later in the afternoon, he is slated to visit state vocational high school (SMKN) 1 and Minggu market in Bengkulu city. (BPMI of Presidential Secretariat/UN) (RAS/LW)