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Politeknik Negeri Jember (POLIJE) held an opening meeting with Benaya Victorious Jaya from Swiss-Skill for Competitiveness (SS4C) to discuss potential collaboration and alignment of vocational education with current industry needs. The meeting was attended by Dr. Yossi Wibisono, SP., M.Si, Vice Director II of POLIJE; Agus Riyanto, SE., M.Si, Head AKPK; the Head and staff of the Office of International Affairs; and SS4C representative Benaya.
In the meeting, SS4C reaffirmed its commitment to bridging POLIJE with industry partners, especially those who have never partnered with the institution before. This initiative is expected to create new pathways for graduates to enter the workforce through more relevant and targeted industry engagement.
SS4C also highlighted the increasing demand from industries for Mandarin language proficiency, particularly for students and fresh graduates aiming to be hired by international companies. Benaya expressed the hope that POLIJE could proactively respond to this need by enhancing Mandarin language training for its students.
Another key topic of discussion was the development of the Teaching Factory (TEFA) at POLIJE. Dr. Yossi Wibisono emphasized that while TEFA is vital in equipping students with hands-on skills aligned with real industry practices, POLIJE currently faces challenges related to the availability and adequacy of equipment. Addressing this gap will be essential to optimizing practical learning experiences for students.
In line with national initiatives, the Directorate General and Secretary of the Directorate General of Higher Education, Research and Technology (KEMENDIKTI) are scheduled to visit POLIJE on May 29, 2025. SS4C has been officially invited to attend the audience session, signaling the government’s recognition of SS4C’s role in strengthening vocational education.
Environmental sustainability and campus discipline were also discussed, with POLIJE set to implement a reward and punishment system to support its vision of a green campus, under the Green and Smart Jember (GSJ) program.
In terms of financial accountability, POLIJE proudly announced that it had received the Unqualified Opinion (WTP) in 2025, reflecting its commitment to transparent and accountable financial practices.
Furthermore, TEFA development continues to prioritize student services, with plans underway to expand the campus polyclinic and build a hospital and food court. Revenue generated from TEFA activities will be utilized to enhance staff performance incentives, in alignment with POLIJE’s educational mission, where students remain the core stakeholders.
The International Business Center (IBC) has also mapped out workforce needs for the next five years, emphasizing that future planning must be informed by industry input—including language skills such as Mandarin.
From a safety perspective, the engineering department has already implemented Occupational Health and Safety (K3) practices through regular simulations, emergency response training, and maintenance routines.
Importantly, POLIJE has finalized its 2025–2030 Strategic Plan, which will serve as a guide for institutional development over the next five years.
The meeting also discussed internships as an effective solution for final projects (TA), with clear guidelines being developed to ensure the competitiveness of graduates in the job market. POLIJE has committed funding to support student visits and internship programs as part of this strategic direction.
This opening meeting marked a crucial step in POLIJE’s efforts to respond dynamically to industrial transformation, increase graduate employability, and position itself as a leading institution in vocational higher education. (rda)