Indonesia, Japan Forge New Vocational Education Partnerships to Boost Human Resource Development
Jakarta, The Gulf Observer: The Sakuranesia Foundation has brokered new vocational education partnerships between Indonesia and Japan, aiming to strengthen human resource development through industry-focused training and student exchanges, the foundation said on Saturday.
Founder Tovic said the initiative was reinforced by a recent visit to Japan by Prof. Agus Maryono, Dean of the Vocational School at Gadjah Mada University (UGM).
“Sakuranesia will continue promoting human resource development that creates value for society through Indonesia-Japan cooperation,” Tovic said in a statement issued in Jakarta.
Serving as a liaison between educational institutions in both countries, the Sakuranesia Foundation organized a forum in Japan to facilitate dialogue and formalize education partnership agreements.
During the visit, Prof. Maryono reviewed early childhood STEAM education practices at the Azalee Group in Edogawa and held discussions with Kazuhiko Hiruma, Chairman of Sanko Gakuen, along with other stakeholders. The meeting, attended by Tovic, culminated in an agreement to launch a pilot project in vocational education.
A separate partnership ceremony was also held at the Fukuoka Campus of the Japan University of Economics, part of the Tsuzuki Gakuen Group, marking an initial step toward expanding bilateral cooperation in human resource development.
Tovic noted that engagement with leading private education groups in Japan is expected to lay the groundwork for sustainable, long-term collaboration that benefits both nations.
UGM’s Vocational School is widely recognized for its practice-based and internationally oriented curriculum. In their fourth year, students are required to undertake internships or participate in overseas study programs, with approximately 30 percent gaining international exposure annually through such initiatives.
Under the new partnership framework, Indonesian students are anticipated to gain broader industry experience in Japan, enhance cross-cultural competencies, and sharpen practical skills to support their future careers.
“This partnership goes beyond academic exchange. It aims to build a foundation for young generations in both countries to understand each other, learn together and sustainably contribute to society,” Tovic added.
