"Poltekkes plays a vital role in producing qualified health workers ready to be deployed across the country," Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin said during a visit to Poltekkes Rumah Basudara in Ambon, Maluku, on Saturday.
Sadikin stressed that while global demand for Indonesian health professionals is increasing, this must be balanced with domestic needs, especially in archipelagic and 3T regions.
He explained that health polytechnics equip graduates with academic skills, practical training, technology mastery, and a spirit of service, preparing them for remote-area assignments.
Through field practice, applied research, and community service, the Maluku Poltekkes can help meet healthcare needs in island and border regions.
The ministry is also enhancing cooperation with health polytechnics through the Special Health Worker Assignment (TugSus) program, positioning them as frontliners for equal healthcare access nationwide.
During the visit, Sadikin awarded scholarships to outstanding students, underlining the ministry’s commitment to nurturing young talent in the health sector.
Director General of Health Human Resources Yuli Farianti reaffirmed the government's support for TugSus, especially to meet the demand for medical laboratory analysts across the country.
The visit, she said, reflects optimism in building a quality health workforce and ensuring equal healthcare access for all Indonesians.
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Translator: Ode, Kenzu
Editor: Anton Santoso
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