Facing Digital Transformation: The Role of the Prakerja Program in Enhancing Indonesian Workforce Competencies

The Prakerja Program plays a crucial role in addressing Indonesia's demand for a digitally skilled workforce amid rapid technological and economic transformations. This study assesses the program’s effectiveness by employing the European Digital Competence Framework and Kirkpatrick’s Training Evaluation Model. The analysis reveals that while the program ensures accessibility and provides fundamental digital training, it demonstrates notable deficiencies in advanced skill development, sector-specific training, and practical applications. These limitations impede participants' preparedness for specialized employment in the technology sector, creative industries, and startups. The findings emphasize the necessity of an enhanced curriculum that incorporates advanced, modular training and experiential learning opportunities. To improve the program’s efficacy, this study recommends fostering strategic collaborations with industry stakeholders and implementing inclusive educational strategies. Aligning the program with labor market demands is essential for cultivating a highly competent and adaptable workforce in Indonesia’s evolving digital economy.