NABIRE – The Central Papua Provincial Government has once again demonstrated its strong commitment to the future of Papua’s young generation. Through its free education assistance program, the provincial government has begun providing tuition support for thousands of Indigenous Papuan (OAP) students, with a total budget allocation of Rp8.2 billion.
The program brings much-needed relief to students who have long struggled to finance higher education amid economic limitations. Distribution of the assistance began on January 27, 2026, and its benefits have been immediately felt by active students at various higher education institutions, including Satya Wiyata Mandala University (USWIM) Nabire.
USWIM Nabire Rector Petrus Tekege described the policy as tangible proof of the local government’s presence in supporting Papuan students throughout their educational journey.
“This is not merely financial assistance, but a genuine expression of government care, allowing students to focus on their studies without being burdened by tuition concerns,” Petrus Tekege said during an interview at the USWIM Nabire campus on Wednesday morning (January 28, 2026).
According to him, the assistance has a direct impact on the continuity of students’ studies, particularly for those currently enrolled in active semesters. The program specifically targets students in odd semesters—semesters 3, 5, and 7—under the leadership of Governor Meki Nawipa and Deputy Governor Deinas Geley.
The Rector emphasized that the assistance is not intended to cover past arrears, but rather serves as a stimulus and motivation to help students complete their studies on time.
“Today, students can attend classes with greater peace of mind, improved focus, and a sense of being cared for. This means a great deal to Papuan youth,” he explained.
At USWIM Nabire alone, 1,967 students have been registered as beneficiaries. As of the third day of distribution, approximately 20 percent of recipients had received the assistance in accordance with the Decree of the Head of the Central Papua Provincial Education Office. Disbursement is being carried out in stages based on faculties and study programs.
The initial phase focuses on the Faculty of Fisheries, Agriculture, and Animal Husbandry, followed by the Informatics Study Program and other faculties, with completion scheduled through February 2026.
Despite coinciding with the academic break period, the university has ensured that the disbursement process continues in an orderly and accountable manner, as the program is closely tied to regional budget accountability.
USWIM officials hope the free education assistance program will become a sustainable, semester-by-semester policy, in line with the growing number of students in Central Papua.
“We encourage students to make the best use of this assistance to improve their academic performance, discipline, and overall educational quality,” Petrus concluded.
The education assistance program is widely viewed as a humane and strategic initiative by the Central Papua Provincial Government to develop high-quality human resources, while reinforcing its commitment to realizing the Central Papua Bright 2030 vision.
