The Role of Life Skills Education and Vocational Curriculum in the Work Readiness of Vocational High School Students in Indonesia: A Literature Review

Abstract

This article aims to examine the role of life skills education and vocational curriculum in improving the work readiness of Vocational High School (SMK) students in Indonesia. Using a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) approach, this article collects various academic literature and reports from educational institutions between 2020 and 2025. The results of the study indicate that life skills education and vocational curriculum based on industry needs have a significant contribution to the work readiness of SMK graduates. However, challenges in curriculum implementation, facility gaps, and industry involvement are still major obstacles. This study concludes that the integration of life skills education in a vocational curriculum that is relevant and responsive to the labor market is essential to improving the work readiness of SMK students.