The Luwu Regency Government, in collaboration with PT Masmindo Dwi Area (MDA), continues to promote the development of human resources through the Village Future Protection Program (Jaga Masa Depan Desa). One of its key initiatives was marked by the official launch of the MATAPPA Academy by the Regent of Luwu. Implemented in partnership with the Luwu Regency Manpower Office, the program is open to 90 participants from MDA’s operational areas, who will receive vocational training and competency certification aligned with current workforce demands.

This year, participants will undergo training in five competency areas: Automotive Technology, Air Conditioning (AC) Technician, Industrial Electrical Systems, Room Service, and Culinary Arts. In addition to competency-based training, participants will be prepared to obtain certification from Indonesia’s National Professional Certification Agency (BNSP), equipping them with recognized qualifications to enhance their competitiveness and employment opportunities.

The program is part of a collaborative effort initiated through the MATAPPA Village Forum (FORDES MATAPPA), a platform that brings together local government, communities, and MDA to design development programs based on the needs of village residents. Through FORDES MATAPPA, community capacity building has become a key priority, leading to initiatives in vocational training, professional certification, entrepreneurship development, and community economic empowerment.

The Regent of Luwu, H. Patahudding, S.Ag., emphasized that regional development must go hand in hand with the development of human capital.

“We want the people of Luwu Regency to possess stronger capabilities and greater competitiveness. That is why training and certification programs such as those offered through MATAPPA Academy are essential in preparing our younger generation to take advantage of available employment opportunities. With the right skills, people are not only ready to work but are also better positioned to grow and improve their quality of life,” said Patahudding.

He added that collaboration among local government, the private sector, and communities is crucial in preparing a generation that can compete effectively and contribute to regional development.

Meanwhile, the Head of the Luwu Regency Manpower Office, H. Sofyan Thamrin, ST., MM., MSP., highlighted the importance of competency and certification in today’s increasingly competitive job market.

“Industries require workers with measurable and recognized competencies. Through MATAPPA Academy, participants receive not only training but also the opportunity to earn nationally recognized certification. This provides significant added value when entering the workforce,” explained Sofyan.

He expressed hope that participants would make the most of this opportunity to strengthen their competitiveness and improve their future employment prospects.

MDA’s Mine Technical Manager, Mustafa Ibrahim, explained that MATAPPA Academy is part of the broader Village Future Protection Program, implemented together with FORDES to strengthen community self-reliance.

“Through the Village Future Protection Program, we aim to create more opportunities for communities to grow. Some of these opportunities come through training and certification to help individuals enter the workforce, while others focus on strengthening micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) so that communities can build sustainable and independent businesses,” said Mustafa.

According to him, village development is not only about infrastructure but also about ensuring that communities have the capacity to grow alongside the changes and opportunities emerging in their region.

“MATAPPA Academy is a tangible step toward preparing communities for the future. We hope to see more local youth equipped with the skills, certifications, and confidence needed to seize available opportunities, whether as employees or entrepreneurs,” he added.

The Village Future Protection Program is one of the three main pillars of the broader Jaga Desa Program, implemented through FORDES. In addition to enhancing community competencies through training and certification, the program also promotes entrepreneurship development, MSME strengthening, and various initiatives aimed at fostering economic self-reliance in rural communities.

Through the collaboration of the Luwu Regency Government, FORDES, and MDA, the program is expected to produce more skilled workers while strengthening local businesses, providing communities with greater opportunities to improve their livelihoods and build a better future.