RRI.CO.ID, Jayapura - Indonesia’s scholarship program is playing a growing role in strengthening educational and cultural ties with Papua New Guinea (PNG).

Education and Culture Attaché at the Indonesian Embassy in Port Moresby, Arief Kusdwiadnanto, said that as of Tuesday, May 26, 2026, a total of 50 PNG citizens are pursuing higher education at Indonesian universities under full scholarships.

Most of these students are enrolled at leading institutions in Java, including Gadjah Mada University (UGM), Padjadjaran University (Unpad), Brawijaya University (UB), and Gunadarma University (UG).

Their chosen fields of study span economics, agriculture, engineering, and health sciences. Arief noted that recipients benefit from full scholarships, health insurance, and living allowances throughout their studies.

Beyond university-level scholarships, Indonesia has also extended support to five PNG school students currently studying at Al Azhar Jambi. To ease their transition, scholarship recipients undergo Indonesian language training in Port Moresby before departure.

The Embassy provides teachers to help PNG students learn Bahasa Indonesia, ensuring they are better prepared for academic life in Indonesia. “They receive full scholarships, along with health insurance and stipends," Arief explained, as quoted by Antara.

This initiative reflects Indonesia’s commitment to fostering closer ties with its Pacific neighbor through education and cultural exchange. By equipping PNG students with skills in key disciplines, the program not only strengthens bilateral relations but also contributes to regional development. ***