ENHANCING PUBLIC SECTOR COMPETENCIES AND COLLABORATIVE GOVERNANCE FOR AGROTOURISM DEVELOPMENT IN RURAL INDONESIA: A CASE STUDY OF KANIGARA, WONOSOBO

Abstract

This study addresses the critical challenge of developing public sector human resource competencies to support sustainable rural development, focusing on the Kanigara region in Wonosobo, Central Java, Indonesia. Although the area possesses significant agrotourism potential, its realization is hindered by a low human development index and the absence of effective inter-agency collaboration. The research objectives are to analyze the existing capacity of public sector human resources and to examine the dynamics of collaborative governance among various stakeholders. Using a qualitative approach, the study employs in-depth interviews with government and village officials, complemented by a focus group discussion for data triangulation. The findings reveal that despite a strong bottom-up initiative from the community, a lack of targeted skills (such as digital marketing and post-harvest management) and inadequate coordination among local government agencies are major obstacles. The study concludes that fostering a culture of collaborative governance and implementing tailored competency development programs are essential to unlock Kanigara's agrotourism potential. This research provides a practical framework for policymakers to improve public sector capacity, serving as a valuable reference for similar rural development initiatives in Indonesia.