<![CDATA[The regional development progress in East Tanjung Jabung Regency requires high-quality human resources supported by the availability of relevant employment opportunities. However, the increasing number of university graduates from East Tanjung Jabung Regency each year has not been optimally absorbed into the region’s strategic sectors. This condition has contributed to the complexity of career planning issues among university graduates, one of which is attributed to inadequate career planning during their years of higher education. This study aims to identify the main obstacles in career planning for university graduates in Tanjung Jabung Timur Regency and formulate strategies to improve local work readiness. The study used a descriptive qualitative method with a case study approach. Data were collected through in-depth interviews and questionnaires with 30 university graduates from Tanjung Jabung Timur (2023–2025 graduates). The results showed three main obstacles: (1) career orientation strictly focused on the formal/bureaucratic sector (civil service) rather than local flagship sectors like agriculture/plantation and fisheries, (2) skill mismatch between graduate qualifications and local industry needs in Tanjung Jabung Timur, and (3) lack of access and labor market information literacy. This study suggests the importance of synergy between the Regional Government of Tanjung Jabung Timur, higher education institutions, and industry actors through career guidance programs based on regional potential.]]>
