Indonesia and Switzerland have strengthened their cooperation to build a skilled workforce for the renewable energy sector with the launch of Phase 2 of the Renewable Energy Skills Development (RESD) programme. The programme was officially launched on 21 January 2026 in Jakarta and reflects a shared commitment by both governments to support Indonesia’s energy transition and its Net Zero Emission 2060 target. The initiative focuses on developing human resources as a key pillar for the growth of renewable energy in the country.
The RESD programme is based on a cooperation agreement signed in 2025 between Indonesia’s Human Resources Development Agency of Energy and Mineral Resources (BPSDM ESDM) and the Swiss Government through the State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO). Speaking at the launch, Swiss Ambassador to Indonesia, Timor-Leste, and ASEAN, Olivier Zehnder, said that both countries believe a skilled and job-ready workforce is essential for a successful energy transition. He noted that RESD addresses the increasing demand for qualified professionals in renewable energy by investing in people and skills.
Officials from Indonesia also highlighted the importance of human resource development. Prahoro Nurtjahyo, Head of Human Resources Development at the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, said that Indonesia’s large renewable energy potential can only be fully used if it is supported by strong and capable human resources. He stressed the need for policies that strengthen education and vocational training institutions. A representative from the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology added that RESD not only develops curricula but also builds a vocational education system that matches industry needs and connects formal and non-formal education to develop green skills.
From the labour side, the Ministry of Manpower stated that RESD supports both emission reduction goals and workforce development by expanding access to training and job opportunities in the renewable energy sector.
Phase 2 of RESD will run from October 2025 to December 2028 and builds on the success of Phase 1, which began in December 2020. During Phase 1, the programme produced 450 applied bachelor graduates in renewable energy, trained 386 certified solar PV and micro-hydro technicians in nine provinces, and improved the skills of 214 lecturers and instructors. More than 100 partnerships with industry were established, and around 80 per cent of graduates found employment.
In Phase 2, the programme will expand to 19 polytechnics and training institutions across 15 provinces. It will include new technologies such as battery energy storage, alongside solar and hydropower. Other priorities include improving industry-based curricula, upgrading training facilities, and promoting gender equality in renewable energy education and careers. Swiss support will continue through expert training, curriculum development, and improved learning facilities. GFA Consulting Group and its partners will support education, training, and information exchange to improve training quality and strengthen links between education and industry.
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