JAYAPURA, Papua – Former Head of the Papua Health Office and Chairman of the Papua Catholic School of Theology Foundation (STTK), Dr. drg. Aloisius Giyai, M.Kes, has urged young Papuans to use higher education as a foundation for independence, innovation, and job creation.
Giyai delivered the message during an orientation session for new students of Fajar Timur Catholic University of Papua for the 2026/2027 academic year.
“Papuan children must move up to the next level: from job seekers to job creators,” Giyai said.
He said entering university should not merely be viewed as continuing formal education, but as a new stage of personal development—from learners being prepared to become professionals capable of contributing to society.
Giyai emphasized that “moving up to the next level” is not simply about earning a university degree, securing a good position, or achieving a high income. It also means developing better ways of thinking, stronger capabilities, the courage to take responsibility, and the ability to create benefits for others.
As Chairman of the STTK Papua Foundation, which oversees Fajar Timur Catholic University, Giyai said he hoped the institution would produce graduates who are not only academically qualified, but also capable of standing independently, creating value, opening opportunities, and generating employment in their respective fields.
He also encouraged students to change their perspective on higher education, saying university should not merely be a pathway to obtaining a degree and finding employment, but a process of developing the ability to work, create solutions, lead, build businesses, and serve society.
