Jakarta, February 10, 2026 – Amidst the current challenges of job scarcity, a phenomenon has emerged that serves not only as a trend but as a strategic solution for Generation Z: the 'Gig Economy.'

In response to the rise of the gig economy in today’s professional landscape, and as a continuation of the strategic partnership between Dian Nusantara University (UNDIRA) and Kalbis University, the Management Study Programs of both institutions hosted the 50th episode of the UNDIRA WEBINAR series on Saturday, 7th February 2026. This event covered critical topics regarding the labor market while marking a significant milestone for the series, which has been active since April 2019.

The 50th webinar, titled “Navigating The Gig Economy: Opportunities, Skills, and the Future Workforce,” garnered enthusiastic participation from 473 students from both UNDIRA and Kalbis University. The session was deemed highly relevant, as the dynamics of the modern workforce and life management constitute an ecosystem that requires profound understanding, particularly among Gen Z.

Mr. Ibnu Haris Nasution, SE., MM., Head of the UNDIRA Management Study Program, observed that the current transformation of the job market prioritizes not only academic prowess but also the specific competencies of job applicants. Unlike traditional full-time employment, the gig economy offers flexibility and time management structures that are increasingly favored by the younger generation.

Mr. Ignatius Ario Sumbogo, S.S., M.M., Head of the Kalbis University Management Study Program, initiated the session with an interactive quiz. He emphasized that modern employment has evolved beyond mere daily routine; Gen Z is beginning to re-evaluate life choices, future planning, and time management. According to Mr. Ignatius, while the gig economy facilitates work as a means of survival, it is essential to maintain a balance, ensuring that work does not define one’s entire existence. He noted that while the gig economy offers effective flexibility, its inherent instability may not serve as a definitive long-term solution.

Furthermore, Dr. Yanthy Herawaty P, M.Si., a senior lecturer in UNDIRA’s Management Study Program, stated that the flexibility offered by the gig economy is an appropriate response to industrial demands in the Industry 4.0 era.

"I quote Robert Kiyosaki: 'Your future is created by what you do today, not tomorrow.' We must consistently expand our career networks and skill sets whenever possible. The current professional world is determined not by the breadth of our theoretical knowledge, but by the depth of the competencies required by Human Resources in the future," she remarked.

In the context of the burgeoning digital ecosystem, Dr. Yanthy emphasized that opportunities within the gig economy are no longer merely found—they are created. The labor market has shifted from passive to proactive patterns; individuals now have the momentum to build a robust personal brand through effective time management and digital literacy.

However, while the gig economy is viewed positively for supporting Gen Z livelihoods, it is not a universal panacea. The 'phenomenon gap' triggered by the ease of gig work could potentially create an imbalance between formal and informal employment sectors. This could lead to long-term issues such as unstable career trajectories and unstructured organizational management.

Ultimately, the evolution of the era persists without pause. A career in the gig economy is no longer a linear path but a dynamic ecosystem. It requires comprehensive self-management and time management to foster professional well-being while pursuing financial stability.