Jayapura – The free education program launched by the Central Papua Provincial Government has had a tangible impact on families of students in Paniai Regency. The policy is considered highly effective in easing the financial burden on parents while opening wider opportunities for children to build a better future through education.
The Principal of SMK Negeri 1 Pariwisata Paniai, Yelinton Degei, expressed his appreciation and gratitude to the Governor of Central Papua, Meki Nawipa, for implementing the free education program, which has been directly felt by schools and parents alike.
“We are truly grateful and highly appreciative of the Governor of Central Papua for introducing this free education program. It has genuinely helped parents and given renewed motivation to children to continue their schooling,” he said in a statement received in Jayapura on Tuesday.
He explained that after receiving budgetary support from the provincial government, the school immediately utilized the funds to meet students’ basic needs, including the provision of school uniforms and learning materials.
“With this assistance, students feel cared for and are more enthusiastic about participating in the learning process. Parents also feel more at ease as the burden of education costs has been reduced,” he said.
According to Yelinton, SMK Negeri 1 Pariwisata Paniai received more than IDR 780 million to support the free education program, which has significantly contributed to advancing education in the Paniai region.
“We are using these funds as effectively as possible to improve the quality of education and student development,” he stated.
He added that the free education program has also received positive feedback from parents, as it enables their children to continue pursuing education without financial constraints.
“Moving forward, we are committed to producing graduates of SMK Negeri 1 Pariwisata Paniai who are skilled, competitive, and ready to enter the workforce,” he said.
SMK Negeri 1 Pariwisata Paniai is one of 10 senior high and vocational schools in Paniai Regency benefiting from the free education program implemented by the Central Papua Provincial Government, with a total of 357 students.
