Artwork #6: A World Without War: Children Learning in Peace
Trigger Warning: conflict, displacement, educational disruption
By Lena Sutanti
Mara and Adrian live in a region still affected by armed conflict. Whether outside or inside their home, they never feel truly safe. Armed individuals instill fear, and the violence directly disrupts the continuity of education. The temporary school where Mara and Adrian studied had to be closed because the building was too dangerous. The number of displaced children keeps increasing. Many are now separated from their parents.
“There are schools that are just buildings; some have students but no teachers; others have teachers but very few students,” said a local pastor.
Access to education in Papua is deeply challenged by prolonged armed conflict, difficult geography, inadequate infrastructure, a lack of qualified teachers, and the absence of safety for both teachers and students. These issues can easily lead to students dropping out, neglected learning, and teachers who feel unsafe or hesitant to teach.
Equal and inclusive education means celebrating and nurturing diversity. School materials and textbooks must reflect and represent Papuan children and their culture. A sense of ownership and love for learning must be nurtured by integrating local culture into education so it remains relevant and engaging.
Adrian’s parents were once invited to teach the class how to make Noken (a traditional Papuan woven bag). Mara and her classmates were thrilled. That real-life experience boosted their cultural pride and enthusiasm for learning.
To make equal and inclusive education in Eastern Indonesia a reality, we need to:
- End armed conflict
- Provide protection for teachers and students
- Ensure adequate transportation access
- Develop policies tailored to community needs
- Eliminate discrimination and reduce egos through dialogue
- Respect local cultures and promote tolerance
- Hold heart-to-heart conversations
- Offer education on equality and comprehensive reproductive health
- Improve access to reproductive healthcare
- Provide counseling for children
- Foster cooperation among the government, religious and traditional leaders, NGOs, communities, media, and others
Every citizen has the right to quality education and safety. Mara, Adrian, and countless other Papuan children carry immense potential that must be nurtured and developed. Children need an education that fosters empathy, teaches tolerance, engages creative teachers, and ensures safe, conflict-free environments that honor their local culture and encourage curiosity.