Manokwari, West Papua — Monday 28 July The West Papua Provincial Government has officially launched an inclusive education program aimed at ensuring children with special needs receive proper and quality education. This program was initiated to address the challenges of equitable education in a region with diverse student needs, especially children with disabilities.
The inclusive education program was launched by the West Papua Education Office earlier this month in Manokwari. It includes several strategic measures such as training teachers to be competent in teaching students with special needs, providing disability-friendly school facilities, and adapting the curriculum to suit each student’s unique needs and abilities.
“We want to make sure no child is left behind in the education process, especially children with special needs. Through this program, teachers receive special training to understand and accommodate their needs,” said Dr. Hendra Wibowo, Head of the West Papua Education Office, during the program launch.
According to Dr. Hendra, teacher training is a key factor in the program’s success because competent teachers can create an inclusive learning environment that supports optimal student development. In addition, the government is committed to providing adequate facilities such as accessible pathways, comfortable classrooms, and specialized learning aids.
The Principal of Manokwari State Special School (SLB), Siti Nurhayati, welcomed the government’s initiative. “Until now, we have often faced limitations in facilities and curricula that do not fully meet our students’ needs. With this program, we hope children with special needs can learn more comfortably and receive the attention they deserve,” she said.
The inclusive education program also adjusts the curriculum to be more flexible and tailored to individual student needs. This curriculum is designed so that students can engage in the learning process using appropriate methods without feeling pressured or left behind.
Moreover, Maria Yolanda, Head of Special Education and Special Services Division at the West Papua Education Office, added, “Community and parental involvement are crucial in supporting inclusive education. We encourage all parties to actively participate in creating a friendly and supportive environment for children with special needs.”
The program’s launch was prompted by data indicating the low participation rate of children with special needs in formal education in West Papua. The government hopes this program will overcome various obstacles such as the lack of trained teachers, inadequate facilities, and limited public understanding of the importance of inclusive education.
With the launch of this program, the West Papua Provincial Government is committed to providing equal opportunities for all children to access quality and equitable education. “Inclusive education is not only the government’s responsibility but a shared duty to create a more advanced and inclusive generation,” Dr. Hendra concluded.
