The Gig Economy in the Digital Era and Employment Opportunities: A Case Study of Alumni From SMK Mambaul Ulum Sukowono Jember

This study aims to explore the lived experiences of alumni from SMK Mambaul Ulum Sukowono in navigating the dynamics of the digital economy through their involvement in the gig economy. Employing a qualitative case study approach under the interpretivist paradigm, data were collected through in-depth interviews, participant observation, and document analysis involving 25 alumni engaged in various forms of gig work, such as ride-hailing, graphic design, and online selling. The findings reveal that alumni are primarily motivated by the flexibility and immediate access to income, yet they face major challenges including income instability, platform algorithm dependency, and lack of social protection. Digital skills were largely acquired informally through online tutorials and peer learning, reflecting a gap in structured vocational training. Pesantren values such as discipline and honesty significantly influenced their work ethics in digital spaces. The study concludes that while the gig economy offers alternative employment pathways for rural youth, structural disparities and minimal policy support place them in precarious working conditions. This research contributes to a more contextually grounded understanding of the readiness and challenges faced by vocational youth in the digital economy era and recommends inclusive curriculum reforms and policy interventions.