Jakarta. Mining giant Freeport Indonesia or PTFI recently handed over the science and partnership center building to Cendrawasih University (Uncen) in Papua.

This new facility is expected to drive Papua's growth.

"This is part of our support for Papuan youth in pursuing science, technology, engineering, and mathematics [STEM]. So they have global competences, strong character, and can compete at the international level," Freeport Indonesia President Director Tony Wenas was quoted as saying in a press statement.

To date, 332 Uncen alumni currently work in PTFI. As many as 255 individuals studying at Uncen have received Freeport scholarships. Some 51 are still active as students.

"We will continue to improve the quantity and quality of our scholarships," Tony said.

Uncen Rector Oscar O Wambrauw said that the freshly inaugurated building would become a major driver in advancing Papua's STEM progress. 

"This building is a means to create the best works for the nation and state, especially in Papua, in order to achieve a Papua that is healthy, smart, and productive," Oscar said.

Built on 4,800 m² of land with a building area of ​​2,800 m², this three-story building uses solar panels that not only save energy, but also allows students to learn more about renewables. There are 18 lecture rooms with a capacity of 40 people, each equipped with air conditioning, projectors, and laptops that can facilitate online lectures. Each room is named after a mineral chemical element from PTFI products: Cuprum (copper), Argentum (silver), and Aurum (gold). The building also has an auditorium that has 170 seats an a 6 x 3 meter videotron.

The auditorium's interior also features copper material as a visualization of PTFI products, combined with Papuan natural motifs and carvings of Cenderawasih and Kamoro. The same room holds a wall sculpture of the Land of Papua, depicting how natural resources are managed in an integrated manner for the welfare of the community.

All facilities in the auditorium are supported by a two-way online interaction system, complete with internet access throughout the floors. Connecting the floor areas, in the stairwell void area illuminated by natural light from the building's glass, a mural artwork themed 'Copper for Life' is displayed, reflecting what PTFI has contributed to the the community and all stakeholders. Other facilities include a garden and plaza, a 1,300 m² parking area, accessible restrooms, and a fire suppression system for safety.

On the third floor, part of the roof truss is left open as a real-world construction example for civil rngineering students, creating an applicable and inspiring learning space. 

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