UNJ and Billy Mambrasar to Develop Papua Human Resources Education

Jakarta State University (UNJ) and Billy Mambrasar, a member of the Papua Executive Committee and economic policy researcher at the ASEAN Competitiveness Study Centre of Batam State Polytechnic, have agreed to strengthen collaboration on education and human resource development in Papua. The two parties will develop the Higher Education Affirmation Programme (ADik), provide scholarships for Papuan students, and plan teacher training programmes and educational strengthening in Mappi Regency, South Papua. UNJ reported that over the past several years, the university has provided scholarships and educational mentorship to hundreds of students from Papua. The programmes not only focus on enhancing academic capacity but also on character building, leadership, communication skills, digital literacy, and workforce readiness. The collaboration between Billy Mambrasar and UNJ is not the first. In 2020, Billy worked with UNJ to assist Papuan students affected by the Covid-19 pandemic, providing financial assistance and support to those experiencing hardship. As the first Papuan to graduate from Harvard University, Billy Mambrasar is known for consistently advocating for Papuan human resource development through education. During the audience, Billy expressed appreciation for UNJ’s commitment to improving the quality of education for young Papuans. According to Billy, sustainable development in Papua must begin with human development. Therefore, investment in education, character building, and improving the competence of the younger generation are essential foundations for creating superior and competitive Papuan human resources. ‘Education is a long-term investment that will determine the future of Papua. Therefore, I appreciate UNJ’s efforts not only to provide access to education but also to offer comprehensive mentorship for Papuan students so they are ready to become leaders and agents of development in their regions,’ said Billy Mambrasar at the meeting held in Jakarta on Monday. As a follow-up, Billy Mambrasar and UNJ plan to visit Mappi Regency in July 2026. The visit will include motivational activities for Papuan students and the launch of a teacher training programme to improve education quality in the area.