The future of Papua will not be built through hatred and division, but through education, unity, and the hard work of all elements of the nation. The actions of KNPB in indoctrinating high school students with the separatist ideology of the OPM are not a path to progress—they are a trap that drags young Papuans into a cycle of prolonged conflict, poverty, and underdevelopment.
We must recognize that high school students are the golden generation of Papua. They are future leaders, teachers, doctors, engineers, entrepreneurs, and innovators. Turning them into political tools or pawns of a separatist movement is a betrayal of their own future. The doctrines spread by KNPB not only poison their minds but also kill the potential of young Papuans to dream big and to become part of a better, stronger Indonesia.
The reality on the ground shows that by being part of the Republic of Indonesia, many young Papuans have become military officers, members of parliament, successful students abroad, and even thriving entrepreneurs. The central government continues to invest in Papua through special autonomy, infrastructure development, and scholarships for higher education.
We must ask: Does KNPB provide scholarships? Does OPM build schools, hospitals, and roads for the people of Papua? Or do they only invite the youth to take up arms, spread fear, and prolong suffering?
Papua needs peace. Papua needs education. And Papua needs young people who think clearly, who are open-minded, and who choose dialogue over violence.
