Evaluating the Impact of Vocational Equivalency Education Programs on Graduates’ Competence and Labor Market Competitiveness in Indonesia (2020–2024)
Keywords:
Competency, Employability, Equivalency Education, Package C, SPNF SKB, Tracer Study, Vocational EducationAbstract
This study aims to evaluate the impact of vocational education on the competency level and employability of graduates from the vocational-based Package C equivalency education program at SPNF SKB, North Sulawesi Province. The research is grounded in the need to enhance the relevance between the equivalency curriculum and labor market demands through the integration of vocational elements. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining a tracer study survey with quantitative analysis and in-depth qualitative interviews. Data were collected from 168 respondents, consisting of graduates with various employment statuses (employed, self-employed, continuing education, unemployed, and job-seeking). Descriptive analysis revealed that most graduates were either employed or self-employed, with varying degrees of technical and non-technical skill utilization. The Spearman correlation test indicated a positive and significant relationship between Competency Level and Required Competency (r = 0.227; p < 0.01), although the strength was weak. Multiple linear regression analysis demonstrated that Learning Methods and Required Competency simultaneously had a significant effect on Competency Level (R = 0.387; R SQUARE = 0.150; F = 14.539; p < 0.05). Specifically, among employed and self-employed respondents, the relationship was stronger (R = 0.664; R SQUARE = 0.441). These findings confirm that the improvement of graduate competencies is influenced by the alignment between training and job requirements, while training methods serve as a supporting factor. This study provides empirical contributions to the development of vocational curricula in the equivalency education pathway and offers policy recommendations to strengthen the integration between non-formal education and local industry needs.
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