JEMBER – Politeknik Negeri Jember (Polije) collaborated with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Indonesia on Tuesday. The two institutions launched the Shape Your Future Program 2026 at the Polije campus.

The international program equips students with artificial intelligence (AI) skills and prepares them for the workplace. The collaboration also strengthens youth skills to meet the demands of the modern industry.

Throughout the program, participants learn to use generative AI, develop soft skills, and prepare for structured internships. Polije and UNDP are also developing plans to establish an AI Tech Hub on campus.

UNDP Indonesia Focal Point for Youth Empowerment Initiative, Randha Sandita, said Indonesia has significant local potential for AI development.

“Indonesia has significant local potential in AI development that has not yet been widely recognized,” Randha Sandita said.

According to Randha, UNDP aims to expand AI utilization to regional areas through its collaboration with Polije. She is optimistic that young people in Jember can develop digital innovations that support the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Polije Director Saiful Anwar said the program helps students prepare before participating in structured internships. The program also strengthens the skills they need to enter the workplace.

“This program equips students participating in structured internships with enhanced skills to help them become better prepared,” Saiful Anwar said.

Saiful said the program marks UNDP’s first collaboration with a polytechnic in Indonesia. He added that strengthening students’ professional competencies could expand opportunities for industries to recruit Polije graduates.

Polije Vice Director for Academic Affairs and Planning, Ir. Surateno, expressed hope that the collaboration would continue through various other programs.

“We hope this collaboration can continue and expand into various other programs,” Surateno added.

The collaboration between Polije and UNDP strengthens the technology-based learning ecosystem at the vocational institution. The program also encourages students to improve their digital competencies and compete nationally and internationally.