STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT OF GREEN COMPETENCY TRANSFORMATION IN VOCATIONAL EDUCATION IN MEDAN CITY: PROJECT-BASED CIRCULAR LEARNING (PBCL) APPROACH

Abstract

This research aims to analyze the readiness of vocational education institutions in adopting green competencies, develop a Project-Based Circular Learning (PBCL) model, and formulate a transformation management strategy to integrate PBCL into the curriculum and culture of the institution. The research uses  a Research and Development (R&D) approach with a qualitative multiple case study design at vocational education institutions in Medan City. The research is carried out through five stages, namely needs analysis, model design, development and validation, limited implementation, and evaluation. Data is collected through interviews, observations, Focus Group Discussions (FGD), and document studies, then analyzed thematically by triangulating sources. The results of the study show that the readiness of institutions in developing green competencies still faces obstacles in terms of leadership, curriculum, lecturer competencies, industrial partnerships, infrastructure, and sustainability culture. The PBCL model developed integrates project-based learning with circular economy principles through multidisciplinary projects that are oriented to real problems. Limited implementation shows that PBCL increases student involvement and develops technical and non-technical competencies related to sustainability. The research also produces a gradual transformation strategy through continuous planning, implementation, and evaluation to support the development of green competency-oriented vocational education.