JAKARTA – The Province of Papua has received the Youth Service Award from the Ministry of Youth and Sports of the Republic of Indonesia for its outstanding achievement in significantly improving the Youth Development Index over the past two years.

Papua’s Deputy Governor, Aryoko Alberto Ferdinand Rumaropen, who personally accepted the award in Jakarta on Tuesday (October 28, 2025), stated that this accomplishment is the result of the collective efforts of all elements of Papuan society.

“This award proves that young Papuans are capable of competing and excelling at the national level. The Papua Provincial Government will continue to create opportunities for the younger generation to grow, innovate, and lead in various fields,” said Aryoko.

He emphasized that the improvement of the Youth Development Index in Papua reflects the province’s strong development direction, focusing on strengthening education, health, employment opportunities, and youth leadership.

The Acting Head of Papua’s Office of Youth and Sports, Sonya Monim, explained that the Youth Development Index of Papua in 2022 was 57.50, above the national average of 55.33. By 2024, the index reached 56.33, with achievements of 70% in education, 65% in health and well-being, and 53.33% in gender and social inclusion.

“This achievement is the result of cross-sector collaboration and the active involvement of youth organizations and educational institutions through the Regional Action Plan for Youth Development,” said Sonya.

The Papua Provincial Government believes that the improvement of the Youth Development Index brings strategic benefits, including enhancing public and investor confidence, encouraging active youth participation, and opening opportunities for affirmative support from the central government.

“An increase in the Youth Development Index means an increase in the quality of Papua’s young human resources — a long-term investment for the future of the region and the nation,” concluded Sonya Monim. ***