The enthusiasm for developing a green economy must not forget the readiness of our human resources. The jobs that arise many disappear without adequate human resources.
By
KOMPAS EDITOR
·3 minutes read
Human resource capacity and technological mastery remain a challenge for Indonesia’s Green Growth Program. Industry players also need fiscal and non-fiscal incentives from the government to encourage them to use clean energy.
According to environment director Medrilzam at the National Development Planning Agency (Bappenas), the green economy is expected to create at least 1.8 million jobs by 2030, but the workers should possess certain competencies in order to benefit from the new jobs. Apart from the challenges related to human resource capacity and technological mastery, investment is another thing that is no less important (Kompas, 9/8/2022).
The challenge of providing competent human resources is real. Developing a green economy requires a workforce that understands science and technology and the social changes that arise from these. Without adequate preparation, the green economy remains a mere dream.
We remember when Indonesia first entered the digital era, everything was done in a rush amid a lack of human resources. Foreign workers eventually filled the gap. Until now, university graduates are still unable to meet market needs. We see technology companies in this country fighting over data scientists and mobile application developers.
RHAMA PURNA JATI
Solar panels installed on a bridge in Tanjung Raja Village, Muara Enim District, Muara Enim Regency, South Sumatra, Thursday (11/18/2021). This Solar Power Plant generates electricity to flow water from the Enim River to the rice fields of residents in the village.
Could this be repeated in developing the green economy? Very likely. We will be entering a new era with the green economy. All economic activities must be capable of reducing carbon emissions and improve efficiency in resource use. On that understanding, we need human resources that can develop the technology to meet those needs.
We question the readiness of universities and vocational schools to produce human resources that meet industry needs. In principle, universities must be able to anticipate these future needs. University departments and faculties must improve their curriculum. It seems that several new departments need to be opened, while a variety of old departments should be closed to fulfill the needs of the green economy.
The manpower demand for developing the green economy has been mentioned above. The figure is very high and the demand has begun to appear. The Education, Culture, Research and Technology Ministry needs to guide universities in updating their curricula as well as establishing new departments. The ministry can also urge university administrators to change immediately. The challenges are very real.
The old approaches may no longer be sufficient to meet the new challenges. Many things will need to be dismantled.
Present and future problems cannot be solved by old solutions. We will be left behind if we continue to rely on old technology. Many things have to change to usher in the green economy.
This article was translated by Hendarsyah Tarmizi.
