Senator Lalita Provides Scholarships for 10 Papuan Students

Jayapura (ANTARA) — Lalita, a member of the Regional Representative Council (DPD RI) from the Papua electoral district (Dapil), has awarded scholarships to 10 Papuan students to enable them to continue their education to a higher level.

“This scholarship programme is a form of my concern, seeing that many Papuan children have good academic ability but are at risk of stopping their education due to financial constraints,” she said in a statement in Jayapura on Wednesday.

According to Lalita, education is the most valuable investment for the future of Papuan children, which is why she decided to become a foster parent to a number of students judged to have strong achievements and a high enthusiasm for learning.

“I brought together the parents and the children I have sponsored since last year. This is entirely funded from my own money because I want to help them,” she said.

She explained that the students’ success is a happiness that cannot be measured in material terms, and it is hoped that this assistance can help the 10 students complete their education.

“Papuan children have the same ability to compete with students from across Indonesia, provided they are given equal opportunities,” she added.

She noted that building Papua requires not only physical development but also ensuring that the younger generation has access to a proper education.

She expressed hope that more high-achieving Papuan children will have the opportunity to pursue higher education and, in time, become leaders who develop the land of Papua.

“I believe the future of Papua is in the hands of these children. For that reason, as long as I am able, we will continue to try to help them. No Papuan child’s dream should stop simply because of financial problems,” she said.

The scholarship programme has entered its second year, having previously supported three recipients, a figure that has now grown to 10 students.