Papuaaround.com – The Central Papua Provincial Government continues to demonstrate its commitment to strengthening human resource development through education-focused initiatives. One of the latest efforts was the distribution of free laptops to students in Nabire Regency who participated in the 2025 Student Cultural Festival. The program reflects the regional government’s broader strategy to support digital literacy and learning access in the province.
A total of 25 students received laptops during a formal handover ceremony held on Wednesday afternoon, January 21, 2026. The event took place at the Old Airport area, which now functions as part of the Central Papua Governor’s Office complex on Jalan Jenderal Sudirman, Nabire District. The ceremony began at approximately 2:56 p.m. Eastern Indonesia Time and was attended by provincial and local officials.
The handover was led directly by Central Papua Governor Meki Nawipa. He was accompanied by Deputy Governor Deinas Geley, Regional Secretary Silwanus Sumule, the Head of the Central Papua Education Office, and representatives from the Nabire Regency education authorities. Their presence underscored the importance of the initiative within the provincial development agenda.
During the event, the students appeared enthusiastic and proud as they received the laptops. Many wore traditional Papuan attributes, creating a strong cultural atmosphere that highlighted the connection between education, identity, and regional development. For several recipients, the assistance came as a surprise, making the moment especially meaningful.
One of the beneficiaries, Yustina Dogomo, a student from SMA YPPK Adhi Luhur, expressed her gratitude for the support. She said she did not expect to receive such assistance and felt deeply appreciated by the provincial leadership. According to her, the laptop would be carefully maintained and used responsibly to support her learning activities at school.
A similar sentiment was shared by Rosita Novina Kadepa, another student from the same school. She stated that the laptop would be highly beneficial, particularly for completing academic assignments and preparing scientific papers. She also conveyed her appreciation to the governor and deputy governor for paying attention to students’ educational needs.
From the government’s perspective, the laptop distribution was not viewed merely as the provision of physical equipment. Governor Meki Nawipa emphasized that digital devices are strategic assets for students in today’s technology-driven era. He reminded the recipients that access to such tools was not always easy in the past and encouraged them to value the opportunity.
He further explained that the initiative forms part of the Central Papua Provincial Government’s long-term efforts to build a strong educational foundation in the newly established province. Education, according to him, plays a decisive role in advancing Papuan communities and preparing young people to compete in the digital age. He described the laptops as “windows to the future” that can broaden students’ knowledge and perspectives.
In addition to the laptop program, the event also served as a platform to announce further education-related plans. Governor Meki revealed that the free school program, which has already been implemented at the senior high school and vocational school levels, will soon be expanded. The provincial government plans to extend free education to junior high schools and elementary schools across Central Papua.
This planned expansion aims to ensure equal access to education for children throughout the province, regardless of their background or location. The government hopes that by removing financial barriers, more students will be able to continue their education and develop their potential optimally.
Overall, the laptop distribution in Nabire illustrates the Central Papua Government’s ongoing focus on improving education quality through concrete actions. By combining infrastructure support, digital tools, and policy expansion, the provincial administration seeks to create an inclusive and sustainable education system. The initiative is expected to contribute positively to human resource development and long-term regional progress in Central Papua.