NABIRE – The Nabire Regency Government continues to demonstrate its commitment to improving the quality of human resources among Indigenous communities by expanding access to education for children from the Auye Tribe. This initiative forms part of the government’s broader effort to promote equitable development while nurturing a new generation capable of contributing to the region’s future.
Nabire Regent Mesak Magai emphasized that empowering the Auye Tribe has been one of the local government’s priorities since the beginning of his first term in office in 2021. According to him, for many years the Auye people faced limited access to education and essential public services due to their traditionally nomadic way of life.
As a tangible demonstration of this commitment, the Nabire Regency Government inaugurated the Auye Children’s Dormitory, which will serve both as a residence and a learning center for students. The facility is expected to ensure that Auye children can pursue their education continuously without being hindered by geographical or social challenges.
Mesak Magai explained that the positive transformation within the Auye community would not have been possible without the dedication of Reverend Sir John Chr Bani, who has spent more than two decades mentoring and supporting the community. Thanks to his efforts, many Auye families have now settled in permanent villages, creating greater opportunities for children to access formal education.
The local government is also preparing a series of follow-up initiatives, including expanding dormitory facilities, providing school transportation, and creating employment opportunities for Auye graduates. Two university graduates from the tribe, including the first Auye woman to pursue higher education, will be recruited as contract teachers upon completing their studies.
“I hope that more Auye children will pursue higher education so they can become future leaders and help develop their own communities. Education is the key to improving people’s quality of life,” Mesak Magai said.
Meanwhile, Reverend Sir John Chr Bani stated that the newly inaugurated dormitory currently accommodates 20 Auye children, ranging from early childhood education to senior high school. In addition to attending formal schools in Nabire, the students receive character education, spiritual guidance, ethical instruction, and moral development to prepare them for the future.
The educational affirmative action program is expected to lay the foundation for more equitable educational opportunities for Indigenous communities while accelerating the development of human resources across Nabire Regency.
