JAYAPURA – In an effort to reduce unemployment in Papua Province, the Papua Provincial Office of Manpower, Cooperatives, and Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) is carrying out various initiatives through skills training programs for job seekers.

The training aims to improve competence and meet labor needs in the business and industrial sectors.

"Companies need workers who are competent and certified. That is why we provide training so that job seekers have skills that match those needs," said Fransiska H. Rerey, Head of Placement and Training.

She said that the implementation of the training program still faces budget limitations. Even so, the Manpower Office continues to make efforts to reach as many people as possible through the available training programs.

In addition to training, the public is also encouraged to develop independent businesses as an alternative for job creation. Through the Job Training Center, participants are not only equipped with skills, but are also encouraged to start their own businesses.

"For example, in automotive training, after graduating, participants can open a repair shop and employ workers. This is important because not all companies open job vacancies all the time," she concluded. ***