Source: Diskominfo Tolikara

In a powerful celebration of National Education Day (Hari Pendidikan Nasional – Hardiknas) on May 2, 2025, Tolikara Regent Willem Wandik, a proud son of the Papuan soil, led a unifying ceremony at Lapangan Merah Putih Karubaga, reflecting the spirit and dedication of the indigenous Papuan community to the future of national education.

Hundreds of students and teachers from elementary to high schools across Karubaga, along with civil servants, military and police personnel, and respected community leaders, gathered to honor the moment. The event was held under the 2025 theme: “Universal Participation to Realize Quality Education for All.”

Reading the national speech delivered by the Minister of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology of the Republic of Indonesia, Regent Willem Wandik emphasized that National Education Day is not merely an annual ceremony marked by flag hoisting and competitions. Rather, it is a moment to reaffirm commitment, dedication, and the constitutional mandate to enlighten the nation.

“The 1945 Constitution guarantees every citizen the right to education,” said Regent Wandik. “It is fitting that President Prabowo places education as a priority. In his fourth mission (Asta Cita), the President is committed to developing strong human resources to become agents of transformation who will lead Indonesia into a just and prosperous nation. Through education, he envisions breaking the chains of poverty.”

The Regent also underscored that the government cannot work alone due to limitations in resources and funding. He called for collective participation—from the grassroots to national level—to ensure education serves as a public good that empowers future generations.

“With the spirit of National Education Day,” he concluded, “let us join hands in unity and mutual cooperation to realize: Quality Education for All.”

This celebration not only highlighted national values but also underscored the leadership and commitment of indigenous Papuans, like Willem Wandik, in shaping a brighter future for their people and the nation as a whole.