Aryoko Rumaropen, the Head of the Papua Human Resources Development Agency (BPSDM), stated in Jayapura on Friday that the data on scholarship recipients in each province, district, and city had been validated and received by the acting governors.
"This ensures that the management of special autonomy finances is in accordance with the relevant laws and regulations," he affirmed.
Rumaropen also mentioned that the provincial government has reaffirmed its commitment to the central government regarding the financing of scholarships for Papuan students.
The intention to continue the scholarship program has been expressed to the president and the vice president, who chairs the Steering Board of the Papua Special Autonomy Development Acceleration Agency.
However, there has been a change in the financing mechanism since January 1, 2023. The scholarship fund is now managed by the local governments instead of the provincial government.
"Previously, we settled the arrears of Papua's scholarship program, amounting to Rp122 billion (US$8 million), for the fiscal year 2022," he stated.
The provincial government will report the settlement of arrears to the central government no later than July 10, 2023.
Jeri A. Yudianto, the Head of the Papua Communication and Informatics Office, explained that the payments are now made directly to the universities or the students.
Previously, the management of scholarships was under the purview of the provincial government in accordance with the Special Autonomy Law of 2001.
However, with a regulation change in 2021, the budget is now distributed directly to smaller local governments.
Meanwhile, Deputy Minister of Home Affairs John Wetipo expressed satisfaction with the provincial government's policy in clearing the scholarship dues.
He said that he and Acting Governor of Papua, Muhammad Ridwan Rumasukun, had met with 3,900 students to discuss the outstanding fees.
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Translator: Qadri P, Kenzu
Editor: Anton Santoso
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