Indonesia’s 2026 Internship Program Welcomes Disabled and Professional Graduates

Jakarta — Indonesia’s National Internship Program for 2026 will expand its eligibility criteria to include persons with disabilities and graduates of professional education, Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya announced on Monday.

Speaking at the Ministry of Manpower’s Job Market Center in South Jakarta, Teddy said the initiative is no longer limited to fresh university graduates but will now accommodate a broader group of participants.

“In addition to recent bachelor’s degree graduates, the program will also be open to those from professional education backgrounds, as well as our brothers and sisters with disabilities,” he told reporters.

The 2026 program is set to accommodate 150,000 participants, marking a significant increase from the 100,000 slots provided in 2025.

“Last year, there were more than 100,000 internship participants. This year, God willing, we will open up opportunities for 150,000 participants,” Teddy said.

Data from the Ministry of Manpower indicates strong outcomes from last year’s program. Of the 100,000 participants in 2025, around 30 percent secured employment at their host companies after completing the six-month internship.

“Interestingly, from nearly 400,000 applicants, only 100,000 were accepted. Of those, 30 percent were directly employed after six months,” Teddy explained.

He noted that the figures highlight the program’s effectiveness as a bridge between higher education and employment, enabling graduates to transition more smoothly into the workforce.

“This program serves as a real bridge for fresh graduates to enter the job market and begin earning income immediately after completing their studies,” he added.

The National Internship Program will once again target fresh graduates, with registration officially opening on July 15, 2026.

Minister of Manpower Yassierli confirmed that the first phase of registration will begin on that date, following the completion of organizer and vacancy verification.

“The registration phase for organizers and vacancies will conclude on July 15. On the same day, we will open the first batch of applications,” Yassierli said.

The program will be rolled out in three phases throughout the year, each accommodating 50,000 participants to reach the total target of 150,000.

“The initial quota, as directed by the Cabinet Secretary, is 50,000 participants. This will be followed by the second and third batches, each with the same number,” he said.

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