Khofifah urges teachers to fully guide ADEM students to become a superior generation

Malang, East Java (ANTARA) - East Java Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa has asked teachers and school principals to give their utmost in guiding 152 students of the 2026 Papua Middle Education Affirmation (ADEM) programme during their studies in the province, so that they grow into an outstanding generation.

“They are all our sons and daughters, so the duty of the school principals and teachers is to guide them into becoming the best generation, the pride of Indonesia and the Land of Papua,” said Khofifah in Malang, East Java, on Sunday.

Data from the East Java Provincial Education Office shows that the 152 students comprise 15 pupils from West Papua, 30 from Central Papua, 35 from South Papua, 40 from Highland Papua, and 32 from Jayapura.

The students are scheduled to begin the School Environment Introduction Period (MPLS) on Monday (13 July).

Khofifah urged the hundreds of students to make the most of this opportunity to enrich their knowledge and experience so they can achieve their aspirations.

She went on to say that the students must be able to develop into professionals who, in the future, will drive development in their regions and the nation.

“Always love the Land of Papua and study earnestly in East Java, then return home to build Papua and uphold the Red and White. When Papua advances, Indonesia grows stronger,” she said.

Meanwhile, the Executive Chairman of the Papua Development Acceleration Authority, Velix Wanggai, said East Java has demonstrated consistency in supporting the improvement of the quality of Papua’s human resources through the ADEM programme.

Velix said the students must make the most of the opportunity they have received, as it will become important capital in preparing a young Papuan generation that is outstanding and competitive.

Furthermore, he assessed that East Java not only excels in the quality of its education but also possesses rich culture and strong national values, which will add to the experience of all ADEM programme participants.

“Papuan children studying here do not only gain knowledge in the classroom, but are also educated in character building, mental resilience, spirituality, and national awareness, as well as experiencing an atmosphere of culture, brotherhood, and the spirit of development,” said Velix.