Addressing Teacher Shortages through Strategic Human Resource Management in Rural Vocational Schools in Indonesia

Abstract

Teacher shortages in rural private vocational schools have become a critical issue affecting the sustainability and quality of vocational education, particularly in specialized fields such as agriculture and local cultural subjects. This study aims to examine the factors contributing to the shortage of productive teachers and Dayak language instructors at SMKS Al Fajar Parenggean, East Kotawaringin Regency, Central Kalimantan, and to analyze the implementation of Strategic Human Resource Management (SHRM) strategies in addressing these challenges. The research employed a qualitative descriptive approach using a case study method. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, participatory observations, and documentation involving school principals, productive teachers, Dapodik operators, and alumni who were potential teacher candidates. The findings indicate that teacher shortages are primarily caused by educators migrating to government institutions through ASN and PPPK recruitment programs, limitations in the national education database system (Dapodik), and the shortage of certified teachers for the Dayak language as a local content subject. To address these issues, the school implemented SHRM-based strategies, including adaptive strategic planning, recruiting local alumni with relevant competencies, collaborative teaching practices, and integrating digital initiatives to support learning and institutional promotion. The study concludes that SHRM provides an adaptive framework that enables rural vocational schools to maintain learning continuity and strengthen institutional resilience despite structural limitations in human resource availability.