YOGYAKARTA – Gadjah Mada University stated that the Land of Papua has become a magnet for students participating in Community Service Programs (KKN) and community engagement activities.

The statement was delivered by UGM Vice Rector for Student Affairs, Community Service, and Alumni, Arie Sujito, during the signing of a cooperation agreement between the Papua Provincial Government and UGM in Yogyakarta on Friday (8/5/2026).

According to Arie, Papua provides strong social and educational experiences for students because of its cultural richness, natural beauty, and complex development challenges.

"Many of our students want to serve in Papua. They learn about social life, diversity, and the spirit of community development," he said.

He emphasized that Gadjah Mada University is committed to continuously supporting Papua's development through education, research, community service, and the mentoring of Papuan students.

"We love Papua. UGM has a national responsibility to build collaborative networks that provide real benefits to the people of Papua," he stated.

Meanwhile, the Governor of Papua, Matius D. Fakhiri, said that the cooperation is a strategic step in strengthening the development of Papua's human resources.

According to him, Papua needs an outstanding generation capable of competing and returning to develop their region, especially in the fields of healthcare and education.

"Papua needs excellent human resources. Therefore, we hope that cooperation with UGM can help provide quality education, including strengthening healthcare and specialist medical fields," said Fakhiri.

He explained that the Papua Provincial Government is currently encouraging the development of healthcare workers, research, agriculture, and economic development based on local potential.

Matius also expressed appreciation to Gadjah Mada University for continuously accepting and mentoring students from Papua in Yogyakarta.

"We entrust Papuan children studying in Yogyakarta to your care. We hope they return to become role models and drivers of development in Papua," he said. ***