Between exoticism and stereotypes: cultural essentialism toward Papuan students on urban Javanese campuses

Purpose Although Indonesia has long promoted multicultural education, Papuan students studying in Java are still often positioned as a “different,” “unique” or even “exotic” group. This condition makes Papuan students face not only academic challenges, but also social and psychological pressures that can trigger culture shock and acculturation stress. This study aims to examine how the practice of cultural essentialism shapes the social experiences, integration processes and perceptions of self-identity of Papuan students on urban Javanese campuses. This study also aims to understand how they negotiate cultural expectations and the adaptation strategies used in dealing with dominant norms in the campus environment. Design/methodology/approach This study was conducted using a qualitative phenomenological research method with in-depth interview techniques and observation as data collection methods. Findings Exoticism toward Papuan students in higher education is a form of symbolic power that appears inclusive, but reproduces existing inequality. They are often used as a symbol of diversity ceremonially without equal access to intellectual forums, academic resources or leadership spaces. In this context, campus multiculturalism functions more as symbolic legitimacy than as a real effort to create social justice. Originality/value This research reflects the dynamics of multicultural education that are developing in Indonesia. By revealing the struggles experienced by Papuan students in Java, this research contributes to helping open up discourse on structural inequality that has so far been ignored in the campus inclusive narrative. The findings of this research can be the basis for the development of higher education policies that are more socially just.