Papua’s progress is in the hands of the Indigenous Papuan Young Generation

*) By: Pandu PratamaIn the midst of various efforts by the government and various parties to accelerate development in Papua, one thing that is very important and crucial is the role of the young generation of indigenous Papuans. Papua’s future really depends on how this young generation plays a role in advancing their region.The young generation of native Papuans are the nation’s successors who have a strategic role in bringing Papua towards progress. They are the hope for the future who will continue the various development programs that have been and are being implemented. With good education, extensive knowledge, and high enthusiasm, the young generation of OAP can become agents of change who take Papua in a better direction.West Papua Regional Secretary, Jacob Fonataba said the importance of education for indigenous Papuans in efforts to advance national development. Education is the main key in preparing the young generation to lead and advance Papua. The government has made various efforts to improve access and quality of education in Papua. Building schools, providing scholarships, and sending quality teachers to remote areas are some of the steps that have been taken.He reminded that the mandate of the 1945 Constitution states that every citizen has the right to education. Therefore, the education budget is allocated at least 20 percent of the APBN and APBD. Even though access to education has increased significantly, the quality of education services also needs to be optimized. All stakeholders are expected to work together in realizing equal distribution of education quality in West Papua.Head of the Tourism and Creative Economy Division of the Youth and Sports, Tourism and Creative Economy Department of South Papua Province, Sidik Weriuw, said that collaboration between OAP and the Indonesian Community in developing Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Papua is very necessary. This is to encourage local economic growth and strengthen inter-ethnic kinship. This collaboration will not only mobilize MSMEs, but also strengthen social relations between OAP and the Indonesian Archipelago Community in Papua. This step is expected to create positive synergy for sustainable and inclusive economic development in the regionVarious government programs, such as Special Autonomy (Otsus) for Papua, provide great opportunities for the young generation of OAP to contribute to development. Special Autonomy funds allocated for education, health and infrastructure must be used as well as possible to improve the quality of life of the Papuan people. The younger generation must be proactive in utilizing the various facilities and programs available, as well as overseeing their implementation so that they run transparently and accountably.Optimism for a better future for Papua really depends on the young generation of OAP. They must have a clear vision, strong enthusiasm and high commitment to developing their region. With hard work and dedication, the young generation of OAP can bring Papua to the peak of progress and prosperity.In conclusion, Papua’s progress is in the hands of the young generation of OAP. With good education, adequate skills, use of technology, cultural and environmental preservation, and active participation in various social and political activities, the young generation of OAP can become agents of change that lead Papua towards a brighter future. With hard work and cooperation from all parties, a developed, safe and prosperous Papua is not just a dream, but a reality that can be achieved.*) The author is an Economics and Business Student at Cenderawasih University (Uncen)