In an era of rapid transformation and increasing demand for job-ready graduates, UIN Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta has reaffirmed its commitment to preparing students for the evolving job market. Through its Center for Entrepreneurship and Career Development (CENDI), the university partnered with UIN Sultan Thoha Saifuddin Jambi and UIN K.H. Abdurrahman Wahid Pekalongan to organize an online Socialization of the PRIMA Internship Program for Islamic Higher Education Institutions (PTKI) on Tuesday, July 1, 2025.

The PRIMA Internship Program, initiated by Indonesia’s Ministry of Religious Affairs, is designed to enhance student employability across Islamic higher education institutions nationwide. The event featured key speakers including Dr. Abdur Rozaki (Vice-Rector for Student Affairs and Cooperation), Noor Saif Muhammad Mussafi, Ph.D. (Director of CENDI), and Ria Aprilia, M.Psi., Psi. from the PRIMA Technical Team.

Dr. Rozaki described the internship as a strategic bridge between theory and practice, echoing the educational philosophy of Ki Hajar Dewantara—ngamati, ngelakoni, niruke—which emphasizes experiential learning. “Without real-world exposure, we’re like people who read about swimming but never touch the water,” he remarked.

Mussafi highlighted that this program is a rare opportunity for students in their sixth semester or above to connect with professional environments. Eligible students may apply through the official PRIMA portal, where applications will be verified by CENDI. Upon acceptance, students may choose their preferred company and begin the conversion process with their academic advisor. “The requirements are simple, but the impact is long-lasting,” he affirmed.

Ria Aprilia stressed the growing complexity of the job market, shaped by technological disruptions such as AI, Big Data, 3D Printing, and Virtual Reality. She cited World Economic Forum data predicting that 83 million jobs may disappear due to automation, while 69 million new jobs will emerge as a result of technological advancements. “This means continuous reskilling and upskilling are no longer optional—they are essential,” she emphasized.

As part of the program, selected participants will undergo talent assessment and attend two key bootcamps: Work Ethic and Professional Mindset, and AI Engineering for Digital Business Growth—an 80-hour weekend training program designed to sharpen both technical and soft skills.

The registration deadline for the PRIMA Internship Program is July 24, 2025. Students at UIN Sunan Kalijaga who meet the criteria are strongly encouraged to seize this strategic opportunity to enhance their skills, build their portfolios, and prepare to become competitive, adaptive graduates ready to face global challenges. (humassk)