Papua, Indonesia’s easternmost region, is home to a rich cultural heritage and a diverse population. However, it has faced significant challenges in education and human resource development. In response, the Indonesian government introduced the Special Autonomy (Otsus) policy to address these disparities. A key component of this policy is the provision of scholarships aimed at enhancing the educational opportunities for the indigenous Papuan people (Orang Asli Papua or OAP). These scholarships are designed to empower the youth of Papua, enabling them to pursue higher education both domestically and internationally, thereby contributing to the region’s development.
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The Genesis of Otsus Scholarships
The Otsus policy, established under Law No. 21 of 2001, was a response to the unique challenges faced by Papua. It aimed to provide greater autonomy and special funding to the province to accelerate development and improve the welfare of its people. In 2021, the policy was renewed and extended until 2041 under Law No. 2 of 2021, with a continued emphasis on education as a cornerstone for development.
Scholarships under the Otsus program are part of the broader “Papua Cerdas” initiative, which seeks to improve the quality of education for OAP. These scholarships are allocated to students pursuing higher education, with a focus on sending them to reputable universities both within Indonesia and abroad. The goal is to produce a generation of well-educated individuals who can contribute to the region’s development upon their return.
Case Study: Biak Numfor’s Commitment to Education
One of the most notable implementations of the Otsus scholarship program is in Biak Numfor Regency. In 2025, the local government allocated IDR 15 billion from the Otsus fund to finance the education of 26 students studying overseas and 112 students studying domestically under the “Siswa Unggul Papua” (SUP) program. This brings the total allocation for the SUP program from 2023 to 2025 to IDR 46 billion, covering 1,421 students, with 260 studying abroad and 1,161 in Indonesia.
The allocation of funds is the result of a reconciliation process between the Papua Provincial Government and the local governments, facilitated by the Directorate General of Regional Financial Development at the Ministry of Home Affairs. This collaborative approach ensures that the funds are distributed equitably and effectively to support the students’ education.
Challenges and Solutions
Despite the significant investments, the Otsus scholarship program has faced challenges, particularly concerning funding and administrative coordination. The decentralization of Otsus funds following the establishment of new provinces in Papua has led to a reduction in the central government’s share, creating financial constraints. In 2024, the total funding requirement for scholarships amounted to IDR 167 billion, but only IDR 144 billion was available, resulting in delays in disbursement.
To address these issues, the Papua People’s Representative Council (DPRP) has committed to overseeing the resolution of these problems, ensuring that the scholarship program continues to operate smoothly. Additionally, the central government has agreed to utilize remaining Otsus funds to cover the shortfall, demonstrating a collaborative effort to prioritize education.
Impact on Human Resource Development
The Otsus scholarship program has had a profound impact on the human resource development in Papua. By providing access to quality education, the program has enabled OAP students to acquire knowledge and skills that are crucial for the region’s progress. Many of these students have returned to Papua after completing their studies, taking up roles in various sectors such as education, healthcare, and governance, thereby contributing to the local community’s development.
Moreover, the exposure to international education has broadened their perspectives, fostering a generation that is not only academically proficient but also culturally aware and globally competitive.
Future Prospects
Looking ahead, the Otsus scholarship program is poised to play an even more significant role in Papua’s development. With continued support from both the central and local governments, the program can be expanded to include more students and offer a wider range of academic disciplines. Furthermore, partnerships with international universities can be strengthened to provide students with diverse learning opportunities.
However, to ensure the program’s sustainability, it is essential to address the existing challenges, particularly in funding and administrative coordination. Implementing efficient financial management systems and enhancing collaboration among stakeholders will be crucial in achieving the program’s objectives.
Conclusion
The Otsus scholarship program represents a significant step towards empowering the indigenous people of Papua through education. By investing in human resources, Papua is laying the foundation for a prosperous and self-sufficient future. The success of this program underscores the importance of education as a tool for development and highlights the potential of collaborative efforts in overcoming challenges. As Papua continues its journey towards progress, the Otsus scholarship program will undoubtedly remain a cornerstone in shaping the region’s future.
