Prabowo’s Government Focuses on Improving Education Access in Papua Through Education Assistance Programs

JAYAPURA, March 5 2025 – The Indonesian government has launched several new programs aimed at improving the quality of education in Papua, with a primary focus on areas that still lack access to quality education. This initiative seeks to accelerate educational equity in regions that have long been disadvantaged in terms of facilities and educational resources.

The government, through the Ministry of Education and Culture, has introduced scholarship programs, teacher training, and the development of school infrastructure in Papua. The initiative also includes improving internet access and online learning in remote areas.

The program involves various stakeholders, including the Ministry of Education and Culture, local Papua government authorities, and local NGOs focused on education development. Teachers will also be involved in training to enhance the quality of instruction at the primary and secondary levels.

The focus of this program is on regions in Papua that still face significant challenges in accessing quality education, particularly in mountainous and border areas. Several priority districts include Puncak Jaya, Intan Jaya, and Pegunungan Bintang.

This education initiative began in early 2025 and is expected to show significant results over the next five years. Regular evaluations will be conducted to assess its impact on participation rates and the quality of education in the region.

Papua has long faced major challenges regarding access to quality education. High dropout rates and limited educational facilities have contributed to low literacy levels in some areas. With this program, the government hopes to reduce the educational gap between Papua and other regions in Indonesia.

The program will be carried out with funding from the central government, which will collaborate with local governments to ensure that resources are distributed effectively. Additionally, technology will be utilized to connect schools in remote areas with educational centers in larger cities. Improving the quality of teachers and providing necessary educational materials will also be key components of this program.

James Modouw, a prominent Papuan figure and member of the Papua People’s Representative Council, expressed his support for the government’s education program. “Education is the fundamental foundation for building Papua’s future. This program is a positive step that can improve the state of education in Papua, which has been lagging behind,” said Modouw.

Modouw further emphasized that quality education would open up more opportunities for Papua’s younger generation to grow and contribute to the development of their region. “We hope that this program will directly benefit the children of Papua, and the next generation will be better prepared to face global challenges,” he added.

Through this initiative, the government aims to provide equal opportunities for all children in Papua to receive a decent education and contribute to sustainable human development in the region.