Jayapura, Jubi — The Indonesian government is pushing to expand equitable development through programs such as Sekolah Rakyat (People’s Schools) and Koperasi Merah Putih (Red-and-White Cooperatives), aimed at improving welfare in remote areas.

Ribka Haluk said the People’s School program is fully funded by the central government and provides free access to education for underserved communities.

“These people’s schools are free of charge and fully financed by the central government,” she said during a presentation at the 2027 Regional Development Planning Forum (Musrenbang RKPD) and Papua Special Autonomy discussion, held virtually from Jakarta on Thursday (April 30, 2026).

She said the program targets children from low-income families, ensuring equal access to education.

“Children whose parents cannot afford education can still access their right to learning, just like children in cities,” she said.

Haluk added that the Red-and-White Cooperative initiative has shown positive results in other parts of Indonesia.

“In other regions, these cooperatives are already operating, and there are many positive testimonials from the public,” she said.

However, she acknowledged that implementation in Papua remains limited.

“In Papua, implementation may not yet be optimal,” she said.

Haluk emphasized the need for stronger coordination between central and regional governments to ensure effective rollout.

“We must ensure that all these programs reach communities at the frontlines,” she said.

The initiatives are expected to generate multiplier effects, including increased economic activity and job creation.

“If these programs run well, local produce will be purchased, and communities will gain income,” she said.

The government expects the programs to help drive regional economic growth while reducing development disparities across Papua. (*)