Jayapura, May 10, 2025 — Amid relatively stable security conditions in Papua, academic and education figure Dr. Alfius Aninam, S.Th., M.Pd., expressed concern over the potential involvement of students in actions that could harm themselves and disrupt public order. He delivered this appeal during an interview in Jayapura on Saturday afternoon.
In his view, although Papua is generally safe, there are still vulnerable areas that warrant caution. Therefore, he called on all students and academic communities to prioritize their role as learners, not participants in conflict.
“As an academic, I urge students, activists, and the entire academic community to focus on their main responsibility as learners. Study peacefully and pursue your education with diligence,” said Dr. Alfius.
He emphasized that students hold a strategic position in shaping the nation’s future and should not engage in activities that divert them from academic goals or disturb social peace. He reminded that critical thinking and social awareness must be expressed in constructive, not destructive, ways.
“We must exercise restraint and avoid getting involved in anything that could disrupt peace or jeopardize our own future,” he stressed.
Furthermore, Dr. Alfius voiced his support for the continuation of Operation Peace Cartenz-2025. He believes the presence of security forces through this operation has made a tangible contribution in maintaining stability and fostering peace across various regions in Papua.
“Indonesia will always stand strong. Once NKRI, always NKRI,” he concluded with fervor.
This appeal from a senior academic is expected to serve as a reminder for students to uphold their integrity as agents of positive change and to help foster a peaceful and harmonious atmosphere amid the social dynamics in Papua.
