Nduga Human Development Index 35.19 / 0.35: PENA as an Alternative to Human Resource Development in Mountainous Papua

Abstract

This study examines alternative strategies for human resource development in Nduga Regency, Mountainous Papua, where the Human Development Index (HDI) is still very low. The region faces significant challenges, including economic underdevelopment, low access to education, and ongoing conflict. This research focuses on the efforts of the Tunas Harapan Papua Care Foundation (Pena Papua) in improving access to education for students from underprivileged backgrounds. Through qualitative descriptive methods, data are collected through interviews, observations, and document reviews involving stakeholders from foundations, students, and local communities. The findings show that Pena Papua has contributed significantly to improving access to quality education and character development among students. However, cultural erosion, particularly the loss of mother tongues, was identified as a critical problem. The study concludes that although foundations have made significant progress in developing human resources, the preservation of cultural identity remains a challenge that must be addressed along with educational initiatives.