Jayapura — The government’s efforts to expand access to quality education in Papua are becoming more concrete with the commencement of the People’s School construction. This program has gained serious attention from the Ministry of Social Affairs (Kemensos), which emphasized the importance of having legally secured land to ensure smooth development.
Head of the Kemensos Regional Office VI, Jhon Mampioper, stated that only three regencies in Papua currently meet the requirements for building People’s Schools, namely Jayapura Regency, Biak Numfor, and Sarmi. “Across the whole of Papua, only three regencies qualify. The land prepared must be clear and clean,” said Jhon Mampioper.
According to him, People’s Schools are designed as boarding schools and prioritized for children from underprivileged families. All students will receive full guidance in a safe and conducive environment, enabling better learning outcomes.
“People’s Schools provide access to quality education for children from poor families. They have the same rights,”emphasized Jhon Mampioper.
He also expressed his appreciation for the readiness of Teluk Wondama Regency Government, which has provided 100 hectares of land in Tamoge Village, Nikiwar District, for the construction of a People’s School. Jhon stressed that local government support is a crucial factor in accelerating the realization of this flagship education program.
In line with the directives of President Prabowo Subianto, the government will cover all educational expenses, living costs, and dormitory facilities for the students. Furthermore, parents of the students will also receive community empowerment social assistance programs to improve family welfare.
Minister of Social Affairs, Saifullah Yusuf (Gus Ipul), affirmed that the People’s School program will continue to be expanded in accordance with the President’s target.
“Alhamdulillah, the first 100 locations are complete, starting from student recruitment, teachers, and education staff. We are now moving forward to plan another 100 locations this year,” said Gus Ipul.
To strengthen implementation, the Ministry of Social Affairs is also collaborating with the Ministry of Manpower (Kemenaker) by utilizing Job Training Centers (BLK) and Regional Technical Implementation Units (UPTD).
“In line with the directives of President Prabowo Subianto, we are working together with Kemenaker to make use of 41 BLKs so that People’s Schools can reach more children from underprivileged families,” added Gus Ipul.
The presence of People’s Schools in Papua not only expands educational opportunities but also brings new hope for the younger generation. With strong support from both central and local governments, as well as commitment from various stakeholders, this program is believed to be capable of improving the quality of human resources in Papua. (^)
