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1st Int. Transborder Conf. of the Timor Island: Timor %u2013 Science without borderDili, 7-8 May 2025150Designing Effective Career Choice Tools for Generation Z Living in Dryland Areas: A Psychometric AnalysisRizky M. A. Abel*, Andriyani E. Lay, Khetye R. Saba, Katharina E.P Korohama, Putu Agus Indrawan and Paulinus A.S UdaGuidance and Counseling Study Program, Universitas Nusa Cendana*Corresponding author: rizky.aryance.abel@staf.undana.ac.idAbstractThe rapid evolution of digital technology has reshaped the career development landscape for Generation Z (Gen Z), including those in geographically marginalized regions such as dryland areas. However, limited research has addressed the validity of career choice assessment tools tailored to the unique sociocultural and environmental contexts of these populations. This study aims to evaluate the psychometric properties of a career decision-making instrument grounded in Social Cognitive Career Theory (SCCT), adapted to reflect the values and conditions of Gen Z in Nusa Tenggara Timur, Indonesia. A total of 328 Gen Z respondents (aged 16%u201327) participated in the study. Using a quantitative design, Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) was conducted to identify latentdimensions, followed by Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) to assess model fit. EFA results revealed three coherent factors with item loadings exceeding 0.30, while CFA demonstrated strong model fit (CFI > 0.90) for 32 items. These findings confirm the instrument%u2019s construct validity and internal consistency, supporting its application in career guidance programs targeting youth in dryland regions. The study contributes to the cross-contextual validation of SCCT and offers practical implications for counselors developing culturally responsive career interventions.Keywords: Generation Z, dryland regions, career decision-making, psychometric validation, SCCT