MEDAN | INDATANEWS.COM ~ The North Sumatra provincial government has stepped up its efforts to combat unemployment by launching new national and international internship programs. The spotlight is on a structured internship initiative in Japan, designed to give young job seekers better opportunities in the global labor market.
National Internship Program Shows Early SuccessYuliani Siregar, Head of the North Sumatra Manpower Agency, announced on Thursday, February 19, 2026, that both national and international programs are being expanded to sustainably improve employment rates.
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North Sumatra," Yuliani emphasized.
Since its launch in 2025, the national internship program, prioritized by President Prabowo Subianto, has already delivered measurable results. Around 2,800 workers from North Sumatra have been placed in companies and hospitals.
Applications are processed through the official Indonesian Ministry of Manpower platform. Selected participants are placed in registered companies for six months, with all program costs covered by the government.
"After completing the program, we hope participants will continue working permanently in their respective companies," added Yuliani.
Read Also: Deli Serdang to Host Putri Otonomi Daerah 2026 Japan Internship Program Opens Twice a YearIn parallel, an international internship program is offered in collaboration between Indonesia and Japan. Selection occurs twice annually—in April and September—with 200 spots available per round.
Candidates are assessed based on academic performance, physical fitness, and Japanese language skills. Registration through the Manpower Agency is free of charge, covering tests and training. Once approved by the Ministry of Manpower, hosting companies in Japan cover all living and program expenses.
Alternatively, candidates can apply through private training centers (LPK). Of 40 registered centers in North Sumatra, 11 hold official licenses to send interns to Japan. However, participants using this route must cover roughly 42 million Rupiah for departure, training, and language courses.
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Returning Interns Strengthen Regional Economy
Official data shows
North Sumatra's unemployment fell from 458,000 in 2024 to 448,000 in 2026, demonstrating the effectiveness of the programs.
Internships in Japan last between three and five years. The goal is for participants to return with enhanced skills and international experience, boosting the regional economy.
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To prepare youth early, the Manpower Agency plans to conduct informational campaigns in high schools and vocational schools in collaboration with the Education Office and training centers. Students will learn about the requirements and opportunities of a Japan internship while still in school.
"Early preparation has been lacking. Moving forward, we aim to systematically inform students so they can qualify strategically," concluded Yuliani.
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