Student from Nias Pursues Free Nutritious Meals Promise After Securing Bridge Construction

JAKARTA — A student from Nias who previously went viral after requesting bridge construction in her region has now pursued another government commitment. Yemisa Zebua, 17 years old and currently in year 12, expressed her gratitude to President Prabowo Subianto during a remote dialogue held alongside the inauguration of 218 bridges across Indonesia on Monday, 9 March 2026.

“Thank you for all the assistance you have provided to us. Now we no longer need to remove our shoes when we go to school,” said Yemisa, speaking during the dialogue broadcast on the Presidential Secretariat’s YouTube channel.

Yemisa’s initial request for bridge construction was motivated by the difficulty of crossing a river to reach school. With the bridge now completed, she has experienced a tangible improvement in her daily life.

During the conversation, President Prabowo enquired about her future plans. When Yemisa expressed her desire to pursue higher education but acknowledged her family’s financial constraints, the President responded positively.

“My parents cannot afford it, Sir,” Yemisa explained.

Prabowo offered to create an opportunity for Yemisa to sit entrance examinations as part of efforts to support education. He also encouraged her advocacy for her peers, and instructed local military officials to record the names of three additional students who share similar educational aspirations, ensuring their cases would be documented for consideration.