SURAKARTA – The Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta (UMS), organized a briefing session for students preparing to undertake their Internship Program and Community-Based Field Practice (PBL-2). As part of the preparatory series, the department invited Laras Wijayanti from BPJS Employment (BPJS Ketenagakerjaan) Sukoharjo Branch to provide students with essential knowledge on employment social security and occupational protection.
The session aimed to enhance students’ understanding of workplace protection and social security benefits before they begin their field-based learning activities. By gaining a comprehensive understanding of employment insurance schemes, students are expected to be better prepared to carry out their internships and community placements safely and responsibly.
During the presentation, Laras Wijayanti explained the fundamental differences between BPJS Health (BPJS Kesehatan) and BPJS Employment (BPJS Ketenagakerjaan). While BPJS Health focuses on providing healthcare coverage, BPJS Employment offers protection against work-related risks, including occupational accidents and other employment-related social security benefits.
Students were also introduced to various occupational hazards that may arise during internships, community service programs, and other field-based academic activities. The session emphasized the importance of adhering to Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) principles, recognizing potential workplace hazards, and implementing preventive measures to minimize the risk of accidents.
In addition, participants received detailed information regarding the rights and benefits available to students participating in internships, community service programs (Kuliah Kerja Nyata), Community-Based Field Practice (PBL), and similar academic activities covered by BPJS Employment. These protections are intended to provide students with greater confidence and security while completing their practical learning experiences.
Through this briefing, the Department of Public Health UMS reaffirmed its commitment to preparing students not only with academic and professional competencies but also with a strong understanding of workplace safety and social protection systems. The collaboration with BPJS Employment reflects the department’s dedication to fostering a culture of safety, risk awareness, and professional responsibility, ensuring that students are well-equipped for both their academic fieldwork and future careers in public health.
