Education, Soft Skills, and Character in Strengthening Human Resource Competitiveness

Abstract

The quality of Human Resources serves as a crucial determinant in driving economic growth and national competitiveness amid globalization and the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Education plays a strategic role in shaping human capital that excels not only in academic achievement but also in the development of robust soft skills and strong moral character. This study aims to analyze the interrelationship between education, soft skills, and character in enhancing the quality of competitive and globally resilient. Through a comprehensive literature review of recent scholarly works, the findings reveal that the advancement of soft skills such as communication, collaboration, and leadership alongside the cultivation of character attributes including integrity and adaptability, significantly contributes to a nation’s productivity, innovation, and economic performance. Therefore, the education system must be directed toward strengthening holistic competencies to ensure that Indonesia’s human resources possess the intellectual capacity, ethical foundation, and adaptive skills necessary to compete effectively on the global stage.