Studying is not obvious for young Papuans. The access to higher education is limited and the costs of the courses and living are high. This is why Hapin started a scholarship programme. It is intended for disadvantaged young people from disadvantaged regions, who have a sufficient starting qualification and are motivated. Degree programmes which are useful for building up the society of Papua have priority.
With financial support young and talented Papuans are given the chance to study in Papua or elsewhere in Indonesia at a university or university of applied sciences. The intention is that they return to Papua after their study to use their expertise and knowledge for building up their country.
Allocation
It is preferred to provide grants to Papuans who follow studies which are important for the development of Papua, such as economics, health care, agriculture and education. It is very important that they play a leading role in the development of their own country. They can also inspire confidence more quickly from the own population.
In particular women are encouraged to apply for a grant, because they are still in a very disadvantaged position. Boys and girls from the poorest regions are also given priority when providing student grants. The student grants are additional. This means that students have to look for a job, like in the Netherlands, or seek support from others. In most cases the parents are not able to offer financial support.
Tangible
It is interesting for donors that the scholarship programme has very tangible effects. About four hundred young people graduate every year, also because of our fund. Hapin tries to follow the students not only by maintaining contact during the study, but also afterwards.
It is not possible (yet) to ‘adopt’ a student. We are regularly asked about such an adoption, but it is not possible yet to realise a personal approach. Our small office is not able to handle such a labour-intensive administration. Moreover, the communication with Indonesia is often difficult because of the poor post- and e-mailconnections. This is why the scholarship project is organised on a central basis and donors can stimulate the entire project.
