YOGYAKARTA – The Papua Provincial Government is strengthening its efforts to develop human resources through a strategic partnership with Gadjah Mada University. The collaboration will initially focus on the healthcare sector as the foundation for developing a competitive, high-quality Papuan generation.

Governor of Papua, Matius D. Fakhiri, stated that Papua needs support from the country's leading universities to accelerate the improvement of human resource quality across the six provinces in the Land of Papua.

"We are proud to be present at this extraordinary university. UGM is one of the best universities in Indonesia, producing many outstanding human resources. Papua is moving toward that direction," said Fakhiri in Yogyakarta on Thursday (8/5/2026).

According to him, the partnership marks an initial step in fostering and improving the quality of healthcare services in Papua. The regional government wants to ensure that communities receive better healthcare access while also preparing competent indigenous Papuan healthcare professionals.

"We are starting with healthcare first, because without good health, it is impossible to produce excellent Papuan human resources. Therefore, we believe UGM has the qualifications needed to assist Papua," he said.

In addition to healthcare, the collaboration will also expand into education, research, and community service. The Papua Provincial Government hopes that UGM lecturers and students will come directly to Papua to better understand the conditions of local communities and become actively involved in regional development.

"We want students and lecturers to come to Papua and learn about the real Papua. Not the Papua only seen on screens or surrounded by stigma, but a Papua that is safe and ready to build itself," he added.

Meanwhile, Vice Rector of UGM for Student Affairs, Community Service, and Alumni, Arie Sujito, emphasized that Gadjah Mada University is strongly committed to supporting Papua's development through education, research, and community service.

"Papua must continue to be present at UGM, and UGM must also continue to be present in Papua. This collaboration is not merely symbolic, but must provide real benefits for society," said Arie.

According to him, the memorandum of understanding between the Papua Provincial Government and Gadjah Mada University will begin with strengthening the healthcare sector as the top priority. Several faculties at UGM, including the Faculty of Medicine, Public Health, and Nursing, will be directly involved in the collaborative programs.

"This cooperation will be strengthened through cross-faculty collaboration so that programs aimed at improving healthcare quality and the quality of life of Papuan communities can truly run optimally," he said. ***