Cianjur Regency, West Java, October 5, 2026 — For some young people, the door to the future sometimes feels locked when opportunities and capital are limited. That is what Muhammad Abdul Kahfi (21), a young man from Cianjur, West Java, experienced. After completing his education at SMK PGRI 3 Automotive Cianjur, Kahfi's steps were briefly halted. He filled his days working in a general roadside repair shop, sweating to make ends meet and help his family at home.
However, beneath the clanking of wrenches and the smell of oil in the workshop where he works, Kahfi harbors greater hopes. He realizes that practical skills alone are insufficient without a theoretical foundation and professional recognition.
"If I only relied on skills without theory and certification, I realized I wouldn't be able to develop further," Kahfi recalled.
The turning point in his life began when good news arrived from his alma mater. The school announced a free government-funded training and job placement program offered at the Prima Course and Training Institute (LKP). Without hesitation, Kahfi decided to enroll.
Not Just Training, but Space to Grow
Beneficiary of this skills training provided Kahfi with a valuable experience he never imagined. Not only did he receive free training, but he also received full support, including uniforms, teaching materials, and study equipment.
However, what impressed Kahfi most was not just the class material, but the warmth of togetherness and the opportunity to grow with his fellow students and instructors.
"The most memorable moment was when I first met the instructors and my fellow fighters. There I learned so much, not just about automotive matters, but also how to socialize and communicate confidently," he said with gratitude.
His biggest challenge during the training wasn't the complex material, but rather the struggle to overcome laziness and self-doubt. The painstaking learning and guidance from LKP Prima instructors made Kahfi increasingly skilled and confident in his future.
Meeting Destiny Before the Finish Line
It didn't take long for Kahfi's perseverance and dedication to pay off. Even before his training period had even ended, his potential had already captivated the industry. Through cooperation and recommendations from LKP Prima, Kahfi was invited for a job interview.
Now, the 21-year-old has officially started his career at PT Surganya Motor Indonesia in Depok. An achievement he never imagined when he was still a mechanic at a small workshop in Cianjur.
The arrival of stable employment has brought a breath of fresh air to his family's financial well-being. With his monthly income, Kahfi is now able to support his family financially and ease the burden on his parents in Cianjur.
"For me personally and my fellow students, this training assistance is invaluable. When we were struggling to find work, there were institutions and government agencies there to guide us from a place of ignorance to becoming skilled and getting jobs," he said.
Expressions of Thank You and Messages for Comrades in Arms
The journey from a once-delayed vocational high school graduate to a professional technician is a testament to how access to the right vocational education can transform a person's life. Kahfi's words convey a sense of unwavering gratitude.
"I want to express my deepest gratitude. This program has truly helped us, not just me, but all of us who have benefited. Thank you to the ministries and institutions that have paved the way for us," Kahfi said, moved.
To conclude the discussion, Kahfi quoted a simple but profound message for other young people in Cianjur who are on a similar path:
"Increase your self-confidence, never give up on learning, and don't be easily satisfied with what you already have," he stressed.
For Kahfi and thousands of other young people, this assistance program is more than just a short technical training, but a bridge of hope that opens the way to a brighter, more independent, and more meaningful future. (Author & Documentation: Lili Dyah Ayu Candra/Editor: Denty)
Bureau of Communication and Public Relations
Secretariat General
Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education
Website: kemendikdasmen.go.id
X: x.com/Kemdikdasmen
Instagram: instagram.com/kemendikdasmen
Facebook: facebook.com/kemendikdasmen
YouTube: Ministry of Education and Culture
Questions and Complaints: ult.kemendikdasmen.go.id
Press Release from the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education: kemendikdasmen.go.id/pencarian/siaran-pers
#QualityEducationForAll
#MinistryOfEducationAndEducationFriendly
