Nabire – The Central Papua Child Welfare Group (KPA) has expressed support for Central Papua Governor Meki Nawipa’s policy to provide free education and laptop assistance to students as part of efforts to improve access to and the quality of education in the province.
The support follows the Central Papua Provincial Government’s policy of making education one of its development priorities, including through free schooling programs and the provision of learning facilities for students.
In 2026, the Central Papua Provincial Government allocated Rp77.851 billion to support education programs, including free education for junior and senior high school students, vocational schools, special-needs schools, as well as support for boarding schools. The program is aimed at expanding access to education and reducing financial barriers for students.
In addition to providing free education, Governor Meki Nawipa has distributed laptop assistance to students in several areas of Central Papua. In January 2026, 75 laptops were distributed to students from Paniai, Deiyai, and Dogiyai districts.
The policy is part of the provincial government’s efforts to encourage the use of technology in the learning process while motivating young people to continue their education.
The Central Papua Provincial Government has also provided technological assistance to educational institutions. In May 2026, 60 laptops were provided to 12 private universities in Central Papua to support learning activities, research, and education administration.
The free education program is also intended to address barriers to education access, particularly for children facing economic and geographical challenges. The provincial government aims to ensure that children in Central Papua have equal opportunities to receive education.
The policy forms part of the Central Papua Provincial Government’s commitment to strengthening human resources through more equitable access to education. In addition to covering school-related costs, the government has also paid attention to the welfare and professional development of teachers through teacher certification programs.
Through free education and technology assistance, the provincial government expects students in Central Papua to have greater access to learning opportunities and develop skills that will enable them to adapt to technological developments and the changing demands of education in the digital era.
Community support for the policy is expected to strengthen cooperation among the government, schools, parents, and various community groups in improving the quality of human resources in Central Papua.
