JAYAPURA – The Central Papua Provincial Government has taken an extraordinary step by implementing a free education program for 24,481 high school (SMA) and vocational school (SMK) students in 2025. This program covers 124 schools across eight districts, including both public and private SMA and SMK institutions. Central Papua Governor Meki Fritz Nawipa revealed that this policy aims to improve the Human Development Index (HDI) in Central Papua and promote equal access to education.
Not only for SMA/SMK levels, but plans to extend free education to primary and junior high schools (SD and SMP) in 2026 demonstrate the regional government’s commitment to creating more equitable education accessible to all layers of society. This initiative is also part of a larger strategy to prepare high-quality, competitive human resources, while addressing educational disparities.
Additionally, the government is providing scholarships for Indigenous Papuans (OAP) and non-OAP students to continue their higher education in Timika and Nabire, opening up opportunities for the youth of Central Papua to pursue their academic dreams without being hindered by family economic constraints.
With the development of “school all day” (SSH) programs underway, the government hopes to reduce school dropout rates and produce intelligent youth ready to compete on the global stage. All meals for students in these schools are also covered by the government, demonstrating their commitment to meeting the needs of students in Central Papua.
With a significant investment in education, Central Papua is committed to achieving free education across all levels within the next three years, providing equal opportunities for all Indonesian children to secure a bright future.
Source: Antara News
