Jayapura, January 26, 2026 — Yayasan Mutiara Hitam Papua (YMHP), together with the GKI Synod in the Land of Papua, held a meeting at the GKI Synod Office to evaluate the English language program currently implemented across 14 classis and to discuss a strategic plan for improving the quality of Papua’s human resources (HR) in the future.

The meeting highlighted ongoing challenges in coordination among classis that still require improvement. As a strategic measure, it was agreed that progress reports from each class would be submitted regularly to both the Classis and the GKI Synod, enabling a more effective and structured monitoring system.

YMHP Director Fred Bundah emphasized that the foundation’s focus extends beyond improving English language proficiency to include broader human resource development aimed at reducing unemployment. “In addition to the English program, YMHP is also focused on developing Papua’s human resources to help reduce unemployment. Several programs will be developed in collaboration with the GKI Synod in the Land of Papua,” he stated.

2026 Strategic Plan
The strategic plan for 2026 includes the addition of English classes in the Sorong, Waropen, Tambrauw, and potentially West Sarmi Classis.

It also includes business and entrepreneurship training programs, along with the provision of start-up capital for participants.

Computer training will be conducted to enhance digital skills.

The program will also encourage Papuan youth to participate in Australia’s Working Holiday Visa (WHV) program.

In addition, the Black Pearl English Academy (BPEA) will be established in Sorong, offering English programs from pre-intermediate to advanced levels. This initiative aims to prepare Papuan youth to compete for scholarships and pursue overseas studies without having to leave Papua to attend high-cost English courses elsewhere.

Chairperson of the GKI Synod, Rev. Andrikus Mofu, M.Th., reaffirmed full support for the program. “In line with the GKI Synod’s 2026 service theme of ‘Care,’ the GKI Synod remains committed to supporting the English language program currently running in 14 classis across the Land of Papua, as well as the planned expansion to approximately four additional classis in 2026. Although there are still many shortcomings in its implementation, we are committed to continuing our support,” he emphasized.

The GKI Synod will also encourage each classis to actively promote the English course and invite Papuan children and youth—from elementary, junior high, and senior high school levels to the general public—to participate. Furthermore, the Synod expressed appreciation for YMHP’s strategic initiative to introduce the WHV program as a new opportunity for young Papuans to gain international work experience, particularly in Australia.

Representing Black Pearl Network Australia, Arthur Ross Gobby conveyed support from the Uniting Church in Australia, particularly in Western Australia. “Once we start, we never stop,” he said, underscoring a long-term commitment to supporting the improvement of Papua’s human resource capacity.

Yayasan Mutiara Hitam Papua, together with the GKI Synod, remains committed to building a generation of Papuans better prepared to face global competition, with English language proficiency serving as a key gateway to education, employment, and a brighter future.