The Unspoken Realities: Youth, Mental Health, and Job Creation in Indonesia
When governments discuss the whatsoever evolution, transition, or other future-y things of a country, it is crucial to delve beyond the surface and address the underlying challenges, as well as recognize the most impacted group: the youth.
In the case of Indonesia, while the government highlights its efforts in promoting youth empowerment and job opportunities through tons of platform creation, there are certain crucial aspects that remain overlooked. This realization, of what the governments of Indonesia do not talk about when they talk about the youth, mental well-being, and job creation, came to my attention solely during my extensive tenure within the governmental sector.
1. The Unmet Mental Health Needs
One pressing issue that often remains unaddressed is the mental health challenges faced by Indonesian youth. As an individual belonging to the cohort of young graduates amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, I strongly relate to the hardship faced. The circumstances were such that one expects immediate entry into the workforce upon the culmination of one’s graduation ceremony. However, due to the scarcity of job vacancies and the prevalence of layoffs across various companies and startups, one’s employment prospects were severely hindered. The situation was exacerbated when certain companies exclusively sought candidates from the top three universities, thereby further intensifying societal pressures. The combined effects of these challenges, alongside the persistently advancing age, exacerbated the already arduous circumstances. According to a study conducted by Susanti and Pramono (2020) published in the Journal of Youth Studies, mental health problems among Indonesian youth have been on the rise. Depression, anxiety, and suicide rates have reached alarming levels, indicating a significant need for mental health support. However, the government’s focus on job creation tends to overshadow the importance of investing in mental health services and awareness campaigns.
2. Lack of Mental Health Infrastructure
The lack of adequate mental health infrastructure is another critical aspect that goes unmentioned. A news article published by The Jakarta Post (2022) highlighted the scarcity of mental health facilities and trained professionals across the country, especially in rural areas. Insufficient funding and limited access to mental health services prevent many young Indonesians from receiving the support they need. This neglect of mental health infrastructure hinders the holistic development and well-being of the youth, impacting their potential in the job market.
3. Precarious Employment and Exploitation
While job creation is a focal point for the Indonesian government, the quality of employment opportunities deserves closer scrutiny. Many young Indonesians find themselves trapped in precarious employment, with low wages, long working hours, and minimal job security. A news report by Tempo (2021) exposed exploitative practices in certain industries, where young workers are subjected to unsafe working conditions and unfair treatment. Governments must address these issues and ensure that job creation initiatives prioritize decent work and protect the rights of the youth.
4. Skills Mismatch and Education Gap
There is often a disconnect between the skills possessed by Indonesian youth and the demands of the job market. A study conducted by Pratama et al. (2019) published in the Journal of Education and Employment highlighted the prevalence of skills mismatch, with many graduates struggling to find employment relevant to their qualifications. Additionally, the quality of education and vocational training programs needs improvement to bridge the education gap and equip youth with the necessary skills for the evolving job market.
In light of the complex challenges surrounding youth, mental health, and job creation in Indonesia, a comprehensive mind map or diagram is proposed as a visual tool to outline and optimize the measures that will be undertaken to tackle these pressing issues. By visually mapping out the interconnectedness and interdependencies of various strategies, policies, and initiatives, a mind map or diagram can provide a clear and concise overview of the proposed solutions. This visual representation will not only aid in understanding the complexity of the issue but also facilitate effective communication and collaboration among stakeholders involved in addressing mental health, empowering youth, and fostering job creation. Moreover, a mind map or diagram will serve as a dynamic framework that can be updated and adapted as new insights and strategies emerge, ensuring the continuous optimization and improvement of the measures taken.
While the Indonesian government emphasizes youth empowerment, mental health, and job creation, certain critical aspects remain unaddressed. The unmet mental health needs, lack of mental health infrastructure, precarious employment practices, skills mismatch, and education gap are pressing issues that demand immediate attention. It is essential for the government to allocate resources, implement comprehensive mental health programs, improve job quality, bridge the skills gap, and enhance educational standards to ensure holistic development and well-being for Indonesian youth. By acknowledging and addressing these unspoken realities, the government can genuinely empower the youth and create a brighter future for all.
