This action aims to voice their aspirations regarding the central government's policy regarding the free lunch program initiated by the President of the Republic of Indonesia, Mr. Prabowo Subianto Djojohadikusumo.
The students enthusiastically stated that they were not asking for free lunch, but they needed truly free education.
They considered that access to quality education, adequate facilities, and affordable education costs are the main needs for the young generation of Papua Mountains so that they can develop and compete at the national and international levels.
Since morning, the demonstrators gathered at various strategic points before finally marching towards the city center carrying banners, posters, and attributes that reflected their aspirations.
Some of the writings that appeared in this action included:
• "We Need Free Education, Not Free Lunch!"
• "Build Schools, Improve Facilities, Not Just Give Food!"
• "Fair Access to Education for Papua!"
This action took place in an orderly and peaceful manner, guarded by the police and local security forces. There were no incidents that disrupted the demonstration, and the participants disciplined themselves in following the rules that had been agreed upon previously.
In speeches delivered by representatives from each level of education, the students emphasized that the main problem in Papua Mountains is not the scarcity of lunch, but the difficulty of access to quality education. They highlighted the lack of school facilities, the lack of competent teachers, and the cost of education that is still a burden for many families in the area.
A student who also gave a speech said,
"We appreciate the government's good intentions to help students. However, we need free education more so that we can study without having to worry about the cost. We want decent schools, quality teachers, and easy access to educational facilities. Please listen to our voices!"
After hours of conveying their aspirations, the peaceful protesters dispersed in an orderly manner. This action is a real form of awareness of the young generation of Papua Mountains regarding their rights to obtain decent education that is equal to other regions in Indonesia.
Great hopes are pinned on the central and regional governments to immediately follow up on these aspirations with policies that support the future of education in Papua Mountains. The students emphasized that they will continue to voice their rights until free education can truly be enjoyed by all children of the nation in their region.
This peaceful action marks an important history in the struggle for education in Papua Mountains, a big step towards a brighter future for the young generation in the region.
Tim redaksi
