The tree‑planting took place in the Napua Hills area of Jayawijaya District and at Wamena Christian High School, involving 300 students and teachers from across the region.
Acting Head of the Papua Highlands Education and Culture Office, Simon Sembor, said the initiative was part of efforts to preserve nature and ecosystems while preventing disasters such as landslides and floods.
Head of the Governor’s Expert Team, Paul Wetipo, described the planting as the first step toward realizing the “Greening the Valley” program in Jayawijaya.
He emphasized the need to build a strong commitment to environmental protection among the younger generation.
“The governor wants schoolchildren to learn from an early age to love nature by protecting forests and planting trees. Today’s activity is proof of that commitment,” Wetipo said.
The 3,000 trees planted included native species such as Wilo, Sin, and Syzygium myrtifolium (red lip), chosen both to beautify the area and improve soil fertility.
Wetipo added that tree planting will become a tradition during future Hardiknas celebrations across all eight districts in Papua Highlands, fostering environmental awareness and a culture of conservation among young people.
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Translator: Yudhi, Kenzu
Editor: Aditya Eko Sigit Wicaksono
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