The city of Makassar in South Sulawesi, Indonesia has seen fast economic growth in the past few years. In 2019, the province’s growth reached 6.9% – higher than the 5% national rate – with rapid infrastructure development, particularly in the maritime industry.
As the region’s industry grows, it is experiencing rapid digitalisation. Our study with the bilateral research initiative Australia-Indonesia Centre (AIC) this year found significant gaps in digital literacy and skills between the education system and industrial needs in South Sulawesi.
Our team built an instrument that measured individuals’ digital competencies in nine dimensions – including computational thinking, digital communication, and supply chain-related digital skills. We then conducted a combination of interviews, focus-group discussions and surveys. These involved young port workers, port management, students from vocational education or VET, and school leaders.
