Depok, August 29, 2025 — Indonesia is entering the era of a demographic bonus, where the proportion of the working-age population is significantly larger than other age groups. This condition can become a golden opportunity if the younger generation is able to compete in the job market, but it also carries the risk of a demographic disaster if employment opportunities cannot accommodate them.
In response to this challenge, the Faculty of Public Health (FPH) Universitas Indonesia (UI) held a Competency Development Seminar titled “Career Navigation to Japan for FPH UI Graduates.” The event was organized in collaboration with Insan Global Indonesia (IGI) Academy, providing insights on overseas job and study opportunities. The seminar was conducted in a hybrid format at Room G203, Building G, FPH UI, as well as via Zoom Meeting, attended by prospective graduates of the even semester of the 2024/2025 academic year and FPH UI alumni.
In her opening remarks, Prof. Indri Hapsari Susilowati, S.K.M., M.K.K.K., Ph.D., Manager of Partnerships, Alumni Relations, and Ventures at FPH UI, emphasized the importance of pursuing overseas employment through official and legal pathways.
“The rise in human trafficking cases remains a concerning issue. Therefore, through this collaboration with IGI Academy, we hope that FPH UI students’ potential can be properly channeled should they wish to build careers abroad,” she stated.
The seminar featured Kukuh Panca Wahyudi, Consultant at IGI Academy, who explained the demand for foreign workers in Japan due to the country’s declining productive-age population.
“This opportunity is wide open for Indonesian youth. With preparation in Japanese language and the right documentation, it is entirely possible for FPH UI graduates to work, study, and save in Japan,” said Kukuh.
The discussion was highly interactive, with students raising questions ranging from visa mechanisms, age limits, to career prospects in the field of public health. Kukuh explained that while there is no legal maximum age limit, Japanese companies generally prefer workers under the age of 30.
He further elaborated that FPH graduates—particularly in the fields of nutrition and health—could pursue careers through the Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) pathway in the caregiver or food processing sectors. Meanwhile, Master’s graduates were encouraged to initiate correspondence with professors in Japan as the first step before continuing their studies.
Beyond Japan, IGI Academy also introduced participants to career pathways in Australia and Europe, covering visa types, internship programs, and opportunities for further study relevant to their academic background. IGI Academy also provides continued consultation services for students seeking to design more structured international career paths.
Through this seminar, FPH UI equips its students to face competition in the global job market. With solid competencies and international perspectives, FPH UI graduates are expected to make meaningful contributions not only in Indonesia but also on the world stage. (EAR)