MATRIKULASI UNTUK PENGUATAN KEMAMPUAN SISWA KEJURUAN TEKNIK JARINGAN KOMPUTER DAN TELEKOMUNIKASI BERKELANJUTAN DI SEKOLAH MENENGAH KEJURUAN MUHAMMADIYAH 8 PAKIS

This study aims to analyze the matriculation program in strengthening the vocational skills of Computer Network and Telecommunications Engineering (TJKT) at SMK Muhammadiyah 8 Pakis. The research is motivated by the need to bridge the competency gap of students who have not met the learning standards for the next level. The research method used is descriptive qualitative. Data were collected through observation, interviews, document analysis, and questionnaires. The data analysis technique follows the Miles and Huberman model, including data collection, data reduction, and conclusion drawing.
The results of the study indicate that the matriculation program contributes to improving students' basic understanding and skills, particularly in topics such as computer network introduction, IP addressing, and hardware installation. The implementation of matriculation also prepares students to tackle more complex materials in the next educational stage. The program is considered effective in establishing a skills foundation aligned with workforce demands, achieved through practice-based learning approaches and continuous assessment.
The conclusion of this study is that the matriculation program plays a significant role in supporting the continuity of vocational learning in the TJKT field. This program can be adopted as a strategy to enhance the quality of vocational education and strengthen the competencies of SMK graduates, making them more competitive in the job market.