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Critical thinking is an essential skill in the modern era, characterized by rapid changes in the workplace and the dynamics of daily life. In a time when information is readily accessible and challenges are increasingly complex, individuals are required not only to master technical skills (hard skills), but also to possess the ability to analyze, evaluate, and critically respond to information. These skills are the foundation for making informed, wise, and adaptive decisions. Case studies from various recent news outlets in Indonesia show that many young people, especially Gen Z, still face difficulties entering the workforce due to a lack of soft skills and mental preparedness. This phenomenon is evident in increasing reports of unpreparedness for work pressure, poor communication skills, and a lack of problem-solving skills. Through an analysis of the literature and news reports, this article explores the relationship between critical thinking skills and the real-world challenges faced by Gen Z. Furthermore, it offers practical recommendations for developing critical thinking capacity so that young people can better adapt, improve professional performance, and respond to various issues in daily life more maturely and responsibly.  

With the advancement of technology and globalization, technical skills alone are no longer sufficient to face the increasingly complex challenges of the workplace. Students are expected to possess soft skills such as communication, leadership, teamwork, and critical thinking and problem-solving skills frequently encountered in the professional world. This study aims to analyze the level of achievement, experience, work motivation, and competency on work readiness among students at Gunadarma University, Karawaci Region. The analysis method used quantitative primary data, with the following testing stages: convergent validity, discriminant validity, reliability, r-square, q-square, f-square, and path coefficients. The instrument used was a questionnaire, and valid data was collected from 250 respondents. The sampling method in this study was non-probability sampling with a purposive sampling technique. The testing tool used was SmartPLS. The results of this study indicate that the variables of achievement level, experience, work motivation, and competence influence work readiness among Gunadarma University students in the Karawaci region.

This study aims to analyze the influence of interpersonal skills (soft skills) and practical skills (hands-on skills) on the work readiness of students at the Faculty of Economics and Business, Universitas Pembangunan Nasional “Veteran” East Java in the 2021 academic year. The approach used was quantitative with a survey method through the distribution of questionnaires to 79 respondents. The collected data were analyzed using the Partial Least Squares (PLS) technique. The results of the study indicate that both interpersonal skills and practical skills play an important role in improving students' work ability or work readiness. This finding confirms that mastery of two types of skills, namely technical skills (technical skills) and non-technical skills (non-technical skills), is essential for students to be able to adapt and compete in the world of work. Thus, educational institutions are expected to balance the development of academic aspects and practical skills to prepare graduates who are ready to face professional challenges.

This study aims to analyze the influence of academic achievement, internship experience, competence, and work motivation on the work readiness of Gunadarma University Management students in the Depok region. The research employed a quantitative method using primary data collected through questionnaires. A total of 250 valid responses were obtained using a non-probability sampling technique with purposive sampling. Data analysis was conducted using Smart PLS 4 software with several testing stages, including convergent validity, Average Variance Extracted (AVE), composite reliability, Cronbach’s alpha, discriminant validity, R-square test, predictive relevance (Q²), and hypothesis testing. The results indicate that academic achievement, internship experience, competence, and work motivation significantly influence students’ work readiness, both directly and indirectly. These findings highlight the importance of enhancing practical experience and internal motivation among students to better prepare them for the increasingly competitive job market.

This study examines the impact of self-efficacy, emotional intelligence, and digital skills on student job readiness in the era of digital fatigue. This study used a descriptive method and involved 202 students from Subang studying in the Special Region of Yogyakarta (DIY), selected using a purposive sampling technique. Data were collected through an online questionnaire and analyzed using multiple linear regression with the help of SPSS. The results show that self-confidence, emotional intelligence, and digital skills each have a positive and significant impact on job readiness, and together increase students' adaptability and resilience in the era digital fatigue. These findings emphasize the importance of building self-confidence, managing emotions, and mastering digital skills to mitigate the impact of digital fatigue and prepare students for increasingly competitive and modern job markets. The results of this study can serve as a reference for students, lecturers, and policymakers in developing strategies that combine mental readiness and mastery of digital skills in the educational process at universities.   This study examines the impact of self-efficacy, emotional intelligence, and digital skills on student job readiness in the era of digital fatigue. This study used a descriptive method and involved 202 students from Subang studying in the Special Region of Yogyakarta (DIY), selected using a purposive sampling technique. Data were collected through an online questionnaire and analyzed using multiple linear regression with the help of SPSS. The results show that self-confidence, emotional intelligence, and digital skills each have a positive and significant impact on job readiness, and together increase students' adaptability and resilience in the era digital fatigue. These findings emphasize the importance of building self-confidence, managing emotions, and mastering digital skills to mitigate the impact of digital fatigue and prepare students for increasingly competitive and modern job markets. The results of this study can serve as a reference for students, lecturers, and policymakers in developing strategies that combine mental readiness and mastery of digital skills in the educational process at universities.  

Competition in the job market has been increasing every year, demanding high-quality human resources who are capable of adapting to rapid changes in the era of Industry 5.0. However, recent findings indicate that many graduates, particularly those from the class of 2024, still lack sufficient work readiness, contributing to a relatively low work readiness rate in Indonesia. Work readiness is a crucial attribute that determines the extent to which graduates can transition smoothly from academic settings into professional environments. One of the psychological constructs believed to influence this readiness is the Adversity Quotient (AQ), which reflects an individual’s ability to withstand, adapt, and grow in the face of challenges and difficulties. The purpose of this research is to analyze the relationship between adversity quotient and work readiness among 174 final-year students of the Psychology Faculty at Universitas Negeri Padang. This study employed a quantitative research design with a purposive sampling technique. The Work Readiness variable was measured using a scale developed by the researcher based on Caballero et al. (2011), while the Adversity Quotient was measured using the adapted Adversity Response Profile scale from Stoltz (2000). Based on the results of product moment correlation analysis, findings show that the adversity quotient has a strong and positive correlation (r = 0.691) with work readiness. These results highlight the importance of strengthening resilience and adversity management skills to ensure that students are better prepared to enter the workforce with confidence and competence.

Vocational education in Indonesia faces a serious challenge in the form of a gap between the competencies of Vocational High School (SMK) graduates and the evolving needs of the workforce. Timika City, despite having the largest number of vocational high schools (SMK) in Papua, has not yet fully demonstrated optimal educational management quality, particularly in the aspect of school administration. This condition has resulted in low effectiveness in data recording, documentation of industrial work practices, and reporting and evaluation of partnerships with the business and industrial world (DUDI). This study aims to explore and analyze administrative management strategies that can improve educational quality while strengthening the work readiness of vocational high school students in Timika City. The research method used is a descriptive qualitative approach with content analysis of secondary data, including government policy reports, educational statistics, and the latest scientific literature. The results show that weaknesses in the administrative system are one of the factors inhibiting the achievement of competitive vocational education quality. The implementation of management strategies based on Total Quality Management (TQM) principles, particularly through the Plan–Do–Check–Act (PDCA) cycle, data-driven decision-making, and the involvement of all school elements, has proven effective in increasing the efficiency and accountability of administrative services. The discussion also emphasized the importance of transformational leadership from school principals, developing the competencies of administrative staff, utilizing information technology in administrative systems, and strengthening strategic partnerships with the industrial and industrial sectors (DUDI). Therefore, it can be concluded that school administrative management is not merely a technical function, but rather a strategic component in building a vocational education ecosystem that is adaptive, relevant, and oriented to the needs of the workplace. This research recommends that school policymakers and local governments strengthen administrative governance systems to support educational quality and improve the job readiness of vocational high school graduates.

This study aims to analyze the effectiveness of educational financing management at Central Java State Vocational High Schools, especially in allocating funds for students from low-income families. The background of this study is based on the importance of an efficient, transparent, and targeted financing system in creating inclusive and quality education. This study uses a qualitative approach with a case study method and was conducted on April 25, 2025. Data were collected through interviews and reinforced by information from the school's official website. The results of the study indicate that budget planning and allocation have been systematically arranged based on the priority scale of student needs. However, the effectiveness of fund allocation in supporting superior programs still needs to be improved. Budget evaluations are carried out periodically, but do not yet include indicators of impact on student achievement and work readiness. Supervision is carried out internally and externally, but is still constrained by strict administrative procedures. This study suggests the need to strengthen the impact-based evaluation system and increase the flexibility of budget use policies to be more responsive to the real needs of students.  

This study aims to determine the effect of self-efficacy, field work practice and motivation to enter the world of work on the work readiness of students of Accounting Vocational School, Nunukan Regency. This study uses a descriptive verification research design with a survey approach that has been implemented at the Accounting Vocational School of Nunukan Regency. The subjects in this study were students of class XII Accounting in 3 vocational schools in Nunukan Regency, namely SMKN 1 Nunukan, SMKN 1 Sebatik Barat and SMKN 1 Tulin Onsoi, consisting of 100 female students and 37 male students. The objects of this study are self-efficacy, field work practices, motivation to enter the world of work and work readiness of vocational school students. The data collected through the questionnaire were then processed/analyzed. To test the hypothesis using multiple linear regression. The results of the study indicate that there is a positive and significant influence of self-efficacy, field work practice and motivation to enter the world of work on the work readiness of students of Accounting Vocational High Schools in Nunukan Regency, which is indicated by the results of the multiple linear regression test obtained a multiple correlation coefficient of 0.618 which is included in the category of a strong relationship level with a determination level of 0.382 or in other words, the work readiness variable of vocational high school students is influenced by self-efficacy, field work practice and motivation to enter the world of work by 38.2% with Fcount> Ftable or 26.691> 3.940, then H0 is rejected and accepts H1 which states that there is an influence of self-efficacy, field work practice and motivation to enter the world of work on the work readiness of students of Accounting Vocational High Schools throughout Nunukan Regency.

Adolescent career independence is a crucial aspect in facing the increasingly competitive world of work. This article discusses the role of education and environment in shaping adolescent career independence. Education, both formal and non-formal, provides the foundation of skills and knowledge needed to enter the world of work. On the other hand, the environment, including family, peers, and social communities, plays a role in shaping adolescents' mindsets, values, and motivations in planning their future. This study uses a qualitative approach with a literature study to explore the factors that influence adolescent career independence. The results show that quality education, effective career guidance, and positive environmental support contribute greatly to increasing adolescent readiness to make career decisions independently. In conclusion, collaboration between education, family, and society is key to building a young generation that is independent and ready to face the challenges of the world of work.

The importance of education in improving the standard of living of mankind, especially in facing the challenges of globalization and labor market competition. The purpose of this study is to determine how organizational involvement in students affects the work readiness of students in the Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Padang State University. Using a quantitative strategy with correlational techniques, data collected through questionnaires from 49 proportionally selected students. The results of the analysis show that there is a positive and substantial influence between organizational involvement on work readiness as reflected through the regression coefficient value which reaches 0.883 and R Square of 0.781. This indicates that involvement in organizations explains 78.1% of the work readiness variable. This finding highlights the importance of student involvement in organizational activities as an effort to improve readiness to face the world of work.

Graduates competitiveness is a major factor in determining their readiness to face the increasingly competitive world of work. Management psychology plays an important role in shaping the character, skills, and mentality needed by graduates to be able to adapt to the dynamics of the industry. Through a management psychology approach, such as strengthening leadership, increasing motivation, and managing stress and emotions, graduates can develop a professional and productive attitude. In addition, the application of psychological theory in human resource management allows for the development of soft skills that support work readiness, such as effective communication, teamwork, and problem solving. The application of management psychology in the world of education can be done through various strategies, such as coaching, mentoring, and the formation of an academic culture that is oriented towards self-development. With this approach, educational institutions can create a learning environment that encourages the growth of character and competency of graduates holistically. In addition, the synergy between education and the industrial world is also an important factor in increasing the competitiveness of graduates, where learning based on practice and direct experience can strengthen their readiness to face the challenges of the world of work.

This study aims to identify and classify factors that influence the work readiness of vocational school graduates, analyze the contribution of each factor, and provide evidence-based recommendations for policy development and learning practices in vocational schools. The method used in this study is Systematic Literature Review (SLR), which analyzes articles related to factors affecting the work readiness of vocational school graduates from ScienceDirect. The results of the review show that the Work Readiness of vocational school graduates is influenced by three main categories of factors: individual (technical competence, soft skills, self-efficacy), institutional (curriculum, industrial practice experience), and external (industrial environment, local job opportunities, government policies). All three interact with each other and contribute significantly to work readiness. Strengthening work readiness can be achieved by adapting the curriculum that is relevant to labor market needs, increasing industrial practice experience, and strengthening institutional support and cooperation with the business world. Recommendations for vocational education policy development include improving curriculum quality, strengthening soft skills, and providing wider internship and career development opportunities.  

Student work readiness is very important to face the dynamic world of work, students need to prepare for various challenges in the world of work, such as tight competition, high job demands, and rapid technological changes. This study aims to determine whether Self-Efficacy and Digital Skills partially and simultaneously affect Work Readiness to Face the Era of Society 5.0 in Islamic Banking Students of UIN Raden Fatah Palembang Class of 2021. The research method used is a quantitative approach. The sample in this study was 100 respondents with a sampling technique using random sampling with data measurement using a likert scale. Questionnaires were given to respondents and data analysis was carried out using SPSS 27 software. The results of this study indicate that partially the self-efficacy variable has an influence on the work readiness of islamic banking students with a significance value (sig) of 0.001 < (α) 0.1, and the digital skills variable has an influence on the work readiness of islamic banking students with a significance value (sig) of 0.002 < (α) 0.1. Meanwhile, simultaneously, self-efficacy and digital skills have a positive and significant influence on the work readiness of islamic banking students with a significance value (sig) of 0.000 < (α) 0.1.  

The digital era has brought significant changes in various aspects of life, including in the fields of education and career development. Vocational High School students are faced with challenges to prepare themselves for an increasingly competitive and technology-based world of work. This study aims to identify effective career development strategies for vocational students in the digital era. Through literature analysis and case studies, this research found that the utilization of information technology, soft skills development, and collaboration with industry are key to improving students' work readiness. The results of this study are expected to provide insights for educators, students, and stakeholders in formulating career development programs that are relevant and adaptive to the needs of the labor market.    

This study aims to analyze the integration between career guidance, career development, and the curriculum of Vocational High Schools (SMK) in an effort to improve the quality of graduates who are ready to work. Through a descriptive qualitative approach, data were collected from various literature sources and previous research. The results of the analysis indicate that the synergy between career guidance, career development, and relevant curriculum can improve the competence and work readiness of SMK graduates. The implementation of a structured career guidance program, the development of an industry-based curriculum, and collaboration with the business world/industry (DUDI) are the keys to achieving these goals.    

This study explores the views of high school/vocational school students in Pasuruan City regarding the employment contract system and its impact on their readiness to enter the world of work. With a quantitative approach and survey method, this study involved 54 grade XI students who were selected using the purposive sampling technique. Data collection was carried out through a closed questionnaire, while data analysis used simple linear regression. The results of the analysis showed that students' perception significantly affected their readiness to work, with a regression coefficient of 0.748 and a significance value of 0.000 (p < 0.05). An R Square value of 0.500 indicates that 50% of the variation in job readiness can be explained by students' perception of the employment contract system. The regression assumption test showed that the data met the requirements of normality, homoscedasticity, and no autocorrelation was found. The results of this study highlight the importance of providing a deeper understanding of the employment contract system to increase students' readiness to face the world of work.