Papuaaround.com – Indonesia’s Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka conducted an official visit to Sekolah Rakyat Menengah Atas (SRMA) 41 in Biak Numfor, Papua, on Tuesday, January 13, 2026. The visit formed part of the government’s broader effort to ensure that public education programs operate effectively and reach students from underprivileged families.
During the inspection, the Vice President observed learning activities and interacted directly with students and teachers. At one point, he listened attentively as students sang together, an activity that reflected both the cultural atmosphere of the school and the students’ enthusiasm for learning. This interaction aimed to provide a firsthand understanding of the school environment and the daily experiences of its students.
According to the agenda of the visit, Vice President Gibran focused on evaluating whether the People’s Secondary School program in Biak Numfor is being implemented in line with its original objectives. The program was designed to expand access to quality education, particularly for children from low-income households who often face structural barriers to continuing their studies at the secondary level.
Furthermore, the Vice President reviewed several aspects of the school’s operations. These included classroom conditions, teaching methods, student participation, and the availability of basic learning facilities. He also paid attention to how the school supports students socially and emotionally, recognizing that education is not limited to academic achievement alone.
In addition, Vice President Gibran held brief discussions with school administrators and educators. These conversations centered on challenges faced by the school, such as infrastructure limitations, resource distribution, and student retention. By listening directly to educators, the Vice President sought to gather practical insights that could inform future policy adjustments.
The visit also highlighted the strategic importance of education in eastern Indonesia. Papua, with its unique geographical and social conditions, requires tailored approaches to ensure equal access to education. Through programs like SRMA, the government aims to reduce educational disparities between regions and strengthen human resource development nationwide.
Moreover, the Vice President emphasized the role of Sekolah Rakyat in providing opportunities for students who might otherwise drop out due to economic constraints. He underlined that the success of such schools depends not only on government support but also on community involvement and consistent monitoring.
Local officials welcomed the Vice President’s presence, viewing it as a sign of the central government’s attention to education in remote areas. They expressed hope that the visit would lead to continued improvements in facilities, teacher support, and learning resources for students in Biak Numfor.
Overall, the inspection at SRMA 41 served as an evaluative step to ensure that educational policies translate into tangible benefits on the ground. By directly observing school activities and engaging with stakeholders, the Vice President reinforced the government’s commitment to inclusive education that prioritizes children from disadvantaged backgrounds.
As the People’s School program continues to expand, such visits are expected to play a crucial role in maintaining accountability and improving program quality. The government aims to ensure that every child, regardless of economic status or location, has access to proper and meaningful education.