Implementation Strategies for Preparing the Quality of Graduates of Leading SMK Centers in Pasuruan District in the Face of the Labor Market Supply-Demand Gap

Abstract

The supply-demand gap in the labor market has led to a high unemployment rate even though there are many unfilled job vacancies. Facing this gap requires a holistic strategy, one of which is through improving the quality of vocational education that is able to produce graduates who are ready to work and have skills according to labor market needs. This study aims to examine the implementation strategy of education at the Pasuruan Regency Center of Excellence SMK in overcoming the supply-demand gap in the labor market, especially in the field of Computer Network Engineering (TKJ). The study used a qualitative method with a multi-site approach involving SMKN 1 Bangil, SMKN 1 Purwosari, and SMK Muhammadiyah 1 Pandaan. The results show that curriculum relevance to industry needs, teacher quality, and infrastructure play an important role in improving graduate competitiveness. The curriculum is adjusted through close collaboration with industry, including periodic surveys, discussion forums and annual curriculum evaluations. Teacher quality is improved through regular training, collaboration with industry and professional development integrated into the school's strategic plan. Although the employment rate of graduates is quite high, there is still room for entrepreneurial development. This research emphasizes the importance of a holistic strategy that includes curriculum adjustment, teacher competency improvement, and infrastructure development to reduce the supply-demand gap in the labor market and produce job-ready and globally competitive graduates.