Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology Brian Yuliarto, in a statement here on Sunday, affirmed the ministry’s commitment to implement the meeting's outcomes.
“Before establishing a state university, we can (first) open the off-campus study program (PSDKU). Next year, we can immediately begin recruitment for study programs not available at private universities,” he said.
Minister Yuliarto emphasized the urgency of introducing academic programs aligned with Papua's abundant natural resources and the needs of local communities.
He also stated that the ministry is ready to appoint major universities such as the Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB), University of Indonesia (UI), and Gadjah Mada University (UGM) to provide assistance in applying the new study programs.
To support these efforts, he called on local governments to allocate regional scholarships without hesitation, as his side has the full support and facilitation for them.
According to him, this joint effort is not only about increasing the participation in higher education rate, it is also about ensuring justice and equal access to higher education for all Indonesians, especially in Papua.
“To all higher education institution leaders, your role is strategic and noble, which is educating the nation’s children. These young talents, who will advance Papua in the future, are the result of your dedication,” Yuliarto said.
In response, Southwest Papua Governor Elisa Kambu expressed full support for the ministry's commitment to expanding higher education access in the region.
He noted that the presence of state universities is vital for offering quality study programs and improving local human resource capacity.
Translator: Sean, Kenzu
Editor: Azis Kurmala
Copyright © ANTARA 2025
