Manokwari (ANTARA) – A renewed sense of optimism is growing across Papua’s education landscape following the approval of the Integrated People’s School (Sekolah Rakyat Terpadu) development in Manokwari Regency, West Papua. The approval was granted by the Ministry of Social Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia after Manokwari successfully passed the third stage of verification during an inter-ministerial evaluation meeting.

Acting Head of the Manokwari Regency Social Affairs Office, Ferdy M. Lalenoh, stated that Manokwari is one of three regencies in West Papua deemed eligible among seven applicants. This achievement reflects the region’s readiness and the strong commitment of the local government to expanding inclusive and equitable access to education.

The decision has been positively received by the community, particularly students and families in Manokwari, who view the planned school as a tangible symbol of the state’s presence in addressing the educational needs of Papuan children, especially those from economically disadvantaged households.

“Manokwari has met the requirements and will continue cross-sector coordination so the process stays on schedule.”— Ferdy M. Lalenoh, Acting Head of the Manokwari Regency Social Affairs Office

According to Ferdy, the approval also demonstrates the firm commitment of the Manokwari Regency Government under the leadership of Regent Hermus Indou in aligning regional initiatives with national programs. The local government has ensured the availability of land as a key prerequisite, which played a decisive role in Manokwari being assessed as ready for implementation.

The next phase will focus on fulfilling the required reading criteria (RC) and preparing the detail engineering design (DED). The Ministry of Social Affairs, in coordination with the Ministry of Public Works, has set a target for the procurement process to begin in March 2026, marking a concrete step toward the physical realization of the Integrated People’s School.

To ensure the project progresses as planned, the local government will continue to strengthen cross-sector coordination. At the same time, the Manokwari Social Affairs Office has invited all elements of society to actively support the program as a long-term investment in Papua’s future generations.

The approval of the Integrated People’s School is widely regarded as good news and a meaningful milestone for the people of Manokwari. For students in particular, the initiative represents more than an infrastructure project—it signifies a strategic effort to broaden learning opportunities, enhance human resource quality, and reinforce confidence in a more inclusive, progressive, and competitive future for Papua.