JAYAPURA – Acting Governor of Papua, Agus Fatoni, officially opened the Papua Province Education Sector Working Meeting at the Governor’s Office, Jayapura, Papua, on Friday (September 19, 2025). The meeting was attended by the Acting Regional Secretary of Papua Province, the Head of the Papua Provincial Education Office, Heads of District/City Education Offices across Papua, as well as development partners in the education sector.

This working meeting was held as a strategic momentum to unify the vision, mission, and strategies for education development in Papua so that they become more focused, measurable, and provide real benefits for society.

In his opening remarks, Fatoni emphasized that the education sector is a top priority in Papua’s development agenda. According to him, education is the key to preparing a generation of Papuans who are excellent, competitive, and strong in character.

“The quality of human resources is crucial, as it is the key to development and the nation’s progress,” stressed Fatoni.

He further explained that education transformation in Papua must cover all aspects, ranging from equitable access and teacher quality improvement, to a relevant curriculum and adequate facilities both in urban and remote areas.

Fatoni also underlined the importance of synergy and collaboration in advancing education. He pointed out that the government cannot work alone, but must partner with district and city governments, schools, civil society organizations, and the private sector.

“Education is a shared responsibility. We must work hand in hand — government, teachers, parents, and the community — to ensure Papuan children have equal and proper learning opportunities. Through collaboration, we can realize inclusive and equitable education,” he said.

Through this working meeting, the Papua Provincial Government aims to produce a clearer, more measurable, and sustainable education roadmap. The roadmap is expected to serve as a guideline in designing policies, programs, and budgets that directly support human resource development in Papua.

Fatoni also emphasized that the outcomes of the meeting will provide valuable input for regional policymaking, while ensuring alignment with national programs that highlight the importance of strengthening Indonesia’s human resources.

“I would like to thank all of us for our shared commitment — the commitment of all Heads of Education Offices, Heads of Provincial Regional Government Agencies, and all apparatus in Papua — as well as the support and assistance from the central government to advance education in Papua,” Fatoni concluded.

This working meeting is expected to become an important milestone in realizing educational transformation in Papua. With strong commitment and collaboration from all stakeholders, the Papua Provincial Government is optimistic that education in the Land of Cenderawasih will advance to become more inclusive, competitive, and capable of producing a golden generation ready to face global challenges. ***