INTEGRATION OF VOCATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL CURRICULUM WITH INDUSTRY NEEDS BASED ON OUTCOME-BASED EDUCATION

Abstract

This study aims to describe the process of integrating the vocational high school (Sekolah Menengah
Kejuruan/SMK) curriculum with the needs of the industrial sector through the implementation of the Outcome-
Based Education (OBE) approach. The study is motivated by the gap between the competencies of SMK graduates
and the demands of the labor market, necessitating curriculum reform oriented toward achieving learning
outcomes. A descriptive qualitative approach with a case study Design was employed and conducted at SMK
Muhammadiyah 1 Baturetno, Wonogiri Regency. Data were collected through interviews, observations, and
document analysis, and were analyzed using an interactive analysis model with triangulation techniques to ensure
data validity. The findings indicate that the school has implemented the principles of link and match through
collaboration with industry in curriculum planning, internship program implementation, and the strengthening of
teacher competencies. However, gaps remain between students’ learning outcomes and industry competency
standards, particularly in non-technical skills such as communication, teamwork, and work discipline. The
implementation of OBE provides strategic direction for vocational education to become more oriented toward
learning outcomes relevant to industry needs. Therefore, continuous synergy between schools and industry is a key
factor in producing competent, adaptive, and competitive graduates in the era of Industry 4.0.