Jayapura, Jubi – Central Papua Governor Meki Nawipa has said that no child in the province should be denied access to education because of poverty, where they live, disability, or their family background.
The message was delivered on the governor’s behalf by his Special Staff II, Ukkas, at the opening of Central Papua’s 42nd National Children’s Day commemoration.
This year’s National Children’s Day celebration was held at State Senior High School (SMA) Negeri 1 Plus KPG Nabire SP1 in Bumi Raya Village, West Nabire District, Nabire Regency, on Thursday.
According to Ukkas, the Central Papua provincial government is committed to improving children’s well-being through better education, healthcare, social protection, and stronger family support.
He said the government would also continue improving the availability of teachers, learning facilities, textbooks, and teaching methods that meet children’s needs.
“Children are an essential part of Central Papua’s development. The future of this province depends on the education, health, protection, and character-building they receive from an early age,” Ukkas said, conveying the governor’s message.
He stressed that every child has the right to live, grow, receive education and healthcare, express their views, and be protected from violence, discrimination, bullying, and exploitation.
According to the governor, homes should be safe places for children, while schools must provide healthy, inclusive, and violence-free learning environments. However, safeguarding children’s rights is not solely the responsibility of parents. Governments, schools, customary institutions, religious organisations, businesses, and the wider community all have a role to play.
He also called for greater efforts to foster reading habits, encourage children to express their opinions, nurture creativity, and promote local languages and cultural heritage.
Ukkas said the participation of children with disabilities at the event underscored that every child has equal rights and opportunities to learn, participate, and reach their full potential.
“To the children of Central Papua whom I love and am proud of, study diligently, respect your parents and teachers, take care of your health, and build positive friendships,” he said.
The governor also urged children to use mobile phones, the internet, and social media responsibly, and not to use technology to insult, humiliate, or bully others.
“If you experience violence, discrimination, bullying, or feel unsafe, do not be afraid to speak to your parents, teachers, caregivers, or trusted officials. You have the right to receive help and protection,” Ukkas said.
Nawipa also reminded parents to give their children time, attention, love, and positive role models, saying discipline should be taught through guidance rather than physical punishment or degrading language.
Teachers and education personnel were urged to create safe, healthy, child-friendly schools free from bullying, and to treat every report of violence seriously while prioritising children’s safety.
The governor also instructed all regional government agencies to ensure that children’s interests are incorporated into development planning and implementation. (*)
