In a significant move to empower and invest in the nation’s future leaders, PNG Mining and Petroleum Hospitality Services Limited (PNGMPHSL) has officially launched its inaugural internship programme, welcoming three promising graduates from Divine Word University (DWU), Madang Campus. This initiative is part of a broader awards and internship scheme designed to identify, recognise, and nurture young Papua New Guinean talent.
Demonstrating its commitment to meaningful community engagement and capacity building, PNGMPHSL introduced this initiative to create real pathways for academic achievers to transition into the professional workforce. The programme was launched with a prestigious awards ceremony held at DWU, where four outstanding students were honoured for their exceptional academic and leadership achievements.
The awardees — Jasmine Manuai, Karl Ralewa, Maxwell Gegera, and Patience Hahambu — were carefully selected for their academic excellence, dedication and potential to contribute meaningfully to the workforce. Three of the recipients have since commenced their internship with PNGMPHSL.
Jasmine Manuai, who hails from Manus, Madang and Central provinces and recently graduated with a degree in Tourism and Hospitality Management, expressed her gratitude. “After finishing my final year, I was eager to find employment, but I was not successful with my job applications and eventually gave up. However, winning this award made me very happy and restored my hope," Manuai said.
Karl Ralewa, a Business Management graduate from Central Province, shared a similar sentiment. “When I learned that I was nominated for the PNGMPHSL award, it felt like my hard work was finally recognised. I am learning a lot, and it’s been an amazing opportunity," Relewa said.
Maxwell Gegera, originally from East New Britain and Oro provinces, and a graduate in Information Systems, echoed the pride and enthusiasm felt by his peers, saying “I felt very pleased and proud of myself because it affirmed my dedication and hard work in school. I appreciate the programme as it involves hands-on tasks, and my studies inspire me to excel in this internship.”
The fourth awardee, Patience Hahambu, a valedictorian and recipient of the academic excellence award, has chosen to pursue other opportunities. PNGMPHSL extends its best wishes for her future endeavours.
Speaking on the importance of this initiative, Leonie Baptiste, Training and Development Manager at PNGMPHSL, said that this is the first time the company is implementing such a programme. "Sponsoring awards is our way of giving back to the community while fostering professional development in PNG. As these interns join us, we nurture their growth while benefiting from their skills. We hope to continue this successful programme in the coming years, expanding it to include our joint venture partners," Baptiste said.
The internship will span a full year, offering interns an in-depth and immersive learning experience across all aspects of the company’s operations. Throughout this period, interns will gain hands-on experience in real workplace scenarios and work closely with experienced mentors who will guide their professional development. This comprehensive exposure aims not only to enhance their technical and practical skills but also to provide them with valuable insights into the company’s culture, values, and long-term business objectives, effectively preparing them for a successful career in the industry.
As a landowner company, PNGMPHSL continues to uphold its core values by investing in local human capital. The internship programme is more than just a career opportunity — it is a sustainable step towards national development and a reflection of the company’s long-term vision to empower the next generation of industry leaders.
