Ok Tedi Mining Limited (Ok Tedi) has strengthened its position as one of Papua New Guinea’s leading investors in human capital through the awarding of its 2026 Undergraduate Scholarships to high-performing students from three universities across the country.
As part of its ongoing investment in education and skills development, Ok Tedi recently awarded 21 scholarships to students from the Papua New Guinea University of Technology (UNITECH) in Lae, Divine Word University (DWU), and the University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG) during a presentation ceremony at the company’s Port Moresby office.
The awards included 11 new third-year scholarship recipients and 10 continuing scholars, representing a total 2026 investment of K593,741.
Speaking during the ceremony, Manager Mine Production Mr Yagatau Hamena highlighted the company’s long-standing contribution to nation building through education and workforce development.
“For more than 40 years, Ok Tedi has been more than a mining company. Yes, we mine copper, gold and silver — but the real treasure we invest in is people,” Mr Hamena said.
“We have mined potential. We have mined talent. And we have supported and developed leaders across PNG who are now driving change in engineering, technology, science, business, community development and many other fields.”
Ok Tedi said its scholarship programme forms a key part of the company’s investment in people under its Growth 2050 Strategy. The company said building a capable Papua New Guinean workforce remains critical to ensuring the long-term sustainability of its operations, community development initiatives and national economic contribution.
The company’s long-term human capital development contributions include:
• 689 graduates completing the Graduate Development Scheme since 1988
• 1,191 apprentices trained since 1982
• 731 trainees upskilled from Preferred Area Development communities
• 50 industrial trainees provided with practical work experience
• 40 vocational students supported through the on-the-job training programme since 2023
• 81 students sponsored through the Undergraduate Scholarship Programme
• K37 million invested in training in 2025 alone
Third-year Computer Science student Jodanah Malus expressed gratitude after receiving the scholarship.
“I am deeply honoured to be a recipient of the 2026 Ok Tedi Undergraduate Scholarship. This sponsorship lifts a heavy burden from my parents and allows me to focus fully on my academic goals,” Ms Malus said.
“I am incredibly grateful to Ok Tedi for believing in my potential.”
UNITECH Vice Chancellor Dr Ora Renagi reaffirmed the university’s partnership with Ok Tedi, describing education as central to national development.
“I fully embrace this partnership with Ok Tedi. True change for PNG will only come through the development of our human resources,” Dr Renagi said.
“Ok Tedi recognises that universities exist to transform students into capable, skilled professionals who will drive Papua New Guinea forward.”
Executive Dean of the School of Business and Public Policy at UPNG, Dr Lekshmi Pillai, said the scholarships represented both an opportunity and a responsibility for recipients.
“This is not just an ordinary occasion — it is a momentous one that signifies a profound responsibility,” Dr Pillai said.
“Ok Tedi’s support reflects its commitment to nurturing the future leaders of Papua New Guinea by investing in students currently pursuing higher education.”
“For our scholarship recipients, this support is not only an opportunity but also a privilege that calls for dedication, discipline and excellence.”
Acting Registrar of Divine Word University Marie Clare Aribi thanked Ok Tedi for its continued partnership and support for students across the country.
“We sincerely thank Ok Tedi Mining Limited’s Human Resources team, Training team and Executive Leadership team for your generous support, partnership and belief in our young students at Divine Word University and across Papua New Guinea,” Ms Aribi said.
“Your commitment goes beyond financial assistance — it demonstrates a deep dedication to growth, innovation and meaningful community impact.”
Beyond scholarships, Ok Tedi said it continues to support UNITECH, UPNG and other tertiary institutions through strategic infrastructure and capacity-building investments aligned with Papua New Guinea’s national development priorities.
The company congratulated all 2026 Undergraduate Scholarship recipients and reaffirmed its commitment to supporting their academic and professional development.
Ok Tedi said it remains committed to building a strong, skilled and prosperous Papua New Guinea through sustained investment in education, people and community partnerships.
