Trukai Industries Limited, in collaboration with key stakeholders including the PNG University of Technology, SunRice Group, and the Government of Papua New Guinea, celebrated the graduation of batches three and four of the Smart Farmer Program on Thursday, April 24, 2025.

The event marks a major milestone in the country’s ambition to grow local rice production and transform agriculture into a key economic driver.

Trukai CEO, Alan Preston, expressed his gratitude during the event. “It’s been a joy to be part of this journey. Each year the program grows, and we find new ways to enrich it, share intellectual property, and help people grow rice for both personal benefit and commercial purposes. So far, it’s been quite successful, but there’s more work to be done to secure a better future for PNG,” said Preston.

He emphasized Trukai’s commitment to Papua New Guinea, stating, “Trukai has been part of the fabric of PNG since 1973. We have been here for a long time and maybe be here for another 50, years even 100 years—because we are truly committed. Today is an example of that commitment, supported by wonderful partners from the PNG Government, our partner universities, the Government of Australia and SunRice Group.”

Vice Chancellor of the PNG University of Technology, Professor Dr Ora Renagi, commended the partnership and emphasized the university’s role in national development. “The success of a university is measured by the success of its graduates. Seeing young men and women equipped with skills to participate in economic growth is satisfying. Our goal is to become a world-class institution and programs like these are key drivers of growth.”

Smart Farmer graduate Cathy Wanpis from Eastern Highlands Province said, “We’ve learnt so much and I believe it will help us become better farmers. I hope this program reaches more people, especially in rural areas.”

Secretary for the Department of Agriculture and Livestock (DAL) Dr Sergi Bang, outlined how the program aligns with PNG’s Medium-Term Development Plan IV. Key targets include:

1. Growing the agriculture sector’s GDP from PGK20 billion to PGK40 billion by 2033.
2. Creating 2 million jobs in the sector.
3. Fostering agriculture entrepreneurs to scale from small to medium and large businesses.
4. Improving the Human Development Index and reducing malnutrition by 40%.

“The government has set clear goals, and training programs like this help us get there. Trukai’s role is vital, and DAL stands ready to support this initiative through mechanisms like removing import duties on farming equipment,” the Secretary said.

Mr. Brenton Kanowski, from the Australian High Commission, reinforced Australia’s continued support. “PNG is blessed with rich soil. Through strong partnerships we can help smallholder farmers improve skills and productivity.”

The Smart Farmer Program continues to empower local farmers, particularly those in rural areas who make up 80% of PNG’s population. Rice is fast becoming a staple, and Trukai is leading the charge in building a sustainable, locally driven industry.

Following the Smart Farmer Program Graduation, a ground breaking ceremony was held to symbolise Trukai Industries’ expansion of its commercial rice farming.

The company’s farm at Erap, Morobe Province, has long served as the cornerstone of Trukai’s agricultural initiatives. With the expansion of its commercial rice farming, Trukai has projected to carry out this expansion from 100 hectares in 2024 to 200 hectares in 2025 and doubling this expansion each year.

Trukai has already harvested its first locally grown rice, which is blended into its Roots Rice product and now being shared and enjoyed by its consumers across PNG. Through its commercial rice farming, the company aims to contribute meaningfully to the government's vision of a modern and economically viable agriculture sector by 2030.

Westpac PNG is proud to announce the return of the Westpac Outstanding Women (WOW) Awards in 2025, after a five-year hiatus. These prestigious awards honor women who are making significant contributions and driving change in their fields.

Since its inception in 2006, the WOW Awards have recognised the remarkable efforts of women who excel in their professions and contribute to the nation's development. Westpac is now calling on individuals to recognise and celebrate the outstanding women making a difference in their communities. The awards highlight achievements in seven main categories: Private Sector, Public Sector, Young Achiever, Entrepreneur, Sustainability, Not-for-Profit, and Sports & Arts Advocate, alongside the most prestigious award, the Westpac Outstanding Woman of the Year.

You can now nominate via the Westpac Outstanding Women Awards webpage on Westpac PNG website.

To ensure the nomination process is accessible to everyone in the community, Westpac will provide a WOW Award information booth at the following branches:

• Port Moresby: April 28
• Boroko: April 29
• Gordon’s: April 30

The Westpac team will be onsite to answer questions and assist with the nomination process. This initiative aims to make it easier for community members to submit nominations and celebrate the achievements of exceptional women.

Among the distinguished past awardees is Janet Sios, whose achievements continue to inspire many. Janet, the recipient of the 2015 Not-for-Profit Award, has been a beacon of leadership in the non-profit sector. Her instrumental work in promoting economic empowerment and improving healthcare services has significantly impacted communities across Papua New Guinea. Janet's dedication to uplifting others and her unwavering commitment to social causes exemplify the spirit of resilience and determination that the WOW Awards seek to celebrate.

Speaking about the awards, Janet said, “The WOW Awards shine a spotlight on women who are making real change in their communities and industries. Being part of this recognition is empowering, and I encourage everyone to take the time to nominate a woman who is creating positive change."

Join us in celebrating the outstanding women of Papua New Guinea by submitting your nominations and visiting our WOW Award information booths for support.

To strengthen the long-standing commitment to education in Papua New Guinea (PNG), ExxonMobil PNG Limited, the operator of the PNG LNG Project, recently handed over seven newly built educational infrastructure projects valued at almost PGK 2 million to the communities of Lealea, Papa, Boera and Porebada, in Central Province.

Lealea and Boera Primary schools together with Papa Junior High School each received a double story classroom while Porebada Primary School got a double story duplex classroom. In addition to the classrooms, Lealea Primary School and Papa Junior High School each got a new staff house, while Porebada Primary School got keys to a brand-new administration building.

“At ExxonMobil, we believe that education drives social and economic development and improves living standards, which is why it has been a long-standing community investment focus area for us,” said Dinesh Sivasamboo, Chairman and Managing Director of ExxonMobil PNG Limited.

“A well-structured learning environment, infused with the right resources and a positive atmosphere,

can be transformative for both students and staff. Infrastructure investments like these clearly demonstrate our partnership with - and ongoing commitment to – PNG and its people,” Sivasamboo said.

In acknowledging the support from ExxonMobil PNG, Mr Taumaku Baru, Board of Management Chairman of Porebada Primary School, encouraged the community to look after the newly built infrastructure.

“I thank ExxonMobil PNG for their continuous support to our schools and community. The challenge comes back to teachers, students and parents on how well we can look after these facilities for the future,” he said.

ExxonMobil PNG’s ongoing investment in education across schools neighbouring the PNG LNG Plant site has also included first aid units, educational programs and computer donations.

Since LNG production commenced in 2014, ExxonMobil PNG has invested more than K18 million in educational initiatives across its project areas ranging from refurbishing and building new school facilities and teacher’s houses, WASH amenities, secure fencing, distribution of SBC textbooks and teacher training materials, stationery support, uniforms and sports equipment.

Remington Technology has once again been recognised by Konica Minolta with the Sales Achievement Award for the Pacific Island region, after exceeding our annual sales target for the second year in a row.

As Papua New Guinea’s only authorised Konica Minolta dealer, this back-to-back win highlights the strength of our partnership and the results our team continues to deliver.

CEO Navin Raju and COO Justin Kieseker accepted the award in Sydney at the Konica Minolta Kick-Off Event, which brings together the brand’s top-performing partners from across Australia and the Pacific.

“This isn’t just about hitting targets,” said Raju. “It’s about consistency, trust, and proving that a locally owned PNG business can perform on an international stage. We’ve got a solid team, a strong partnership with Konica Minolta, and we’re not slowing down.”

Remington Technology continues to provide reliable document and business tech solutions across PNG, with a clear focus on service, support, and long-term value.

The award is a nod to the hard work happening behind the scenes – but the real focus stays ahead. More work to do, more goals to crush.

Westpac is pleased to announce the appointment of Andrew Cairns as its new Chief Executive for Papua New Guinea, effective immediately.

Andrew brings extensive leadership experience across banking, social finance, telecommunications, and corporate social responsibility. Having worked in Australia, the South Pacific, Asia, and the USA, he has a proven track record of driving business growth, operational excellence, and innovation. His expertise will be instrumental in strengthening Westpac’s role as a trusted financial partner in PNG.

Welcoming Andrew to the role, Westpac Pacific Managing Director Emma Low said, "I’m delighted to officially welcome Andrew Cairns as Chief Executive of Westpac PNG. Andrew is a seasoned Chief Executive with 20 years’ experience leading growth, innovation and operational optimisation with a strong focus on developing people.

“His experience in leading transformation and driving sustainable growth aligns with our commitment to delivering innovative banking solutions and enhancing financial inclusion. Under his leadership, we will continue to strengthen customer relationships, expand digital banking services, and support economic growth across the communities we serve."

Andrew steps into the role at a crucial time, as Westpac focuses on accessibility, digital innovation, and customer-centric solutions in PNG. His leadership will ensure the bank remains agile in responding to market dynamics while reinforcing its commitment to financial empowerment and responsible banking.

Reflecting on Westpac’s deep history and connection with PNG, Andrew describes joining the team as an enormous privilege. He emphasised, “While banking is Westpac’s business; it does not define who we are. Our most important role is to feed into the prosperity of our customers, helping them realise their aspirations and build better futures for themselves, their families, their communities and their businesses”.

“There is so much to be excited about as we work and grow together. I first visited Papua New Guinea some 10 years after its independence. Much has changed but the volume of opportunities remains to build sustainable outcomes and intergenerational value. I want to be a part of the Westpac PNG team that does that and to having positive impact with my initial focus being to listen and learn and to give voice to our customers strategies”.

Westpac looks forward to this new chapter under Andrew’s leadership, building on its strong foundation to create lasting value for customers, employees, and stakeholders.

Green Hills Accommodation Village is your ideal destination, located just 5 minutes from Motukea Wharf and 8 minutes from the Port Moresby CBD. Designed to cater to business travelers, corporate groups and individuals, Green Hills offers an all-inclusive stay with no extra charges for daily meals and laundry, plus a full range of services, all in one convenient location.

Why do Corporates and groups choose Green Hills?

Due to its convenient location close to two main business hubs and its all-inclusive rates, many corporates - such as Santos, Consort and P&O Shipping – as well as large groups and sporting teams, rely on Green Hills to accommodate their staff for short and long-term stays – from juniors through to Executives. Bookings and packages can be tailored to suit, with hassle-free bookings for additions such as Airport transfers, use of a meeting or conference room, and catering. Our clients keep coming back as Green Hills offers affordable accommodation that is comfortable and secure, and reliable.

Who is behind the Green Hills operations? 

Green Hills Accommodation Village now operates under the banner of ‘Green Hills Hospitality Services Limited’ - a strategic joint venture between two well-known and reputable businesses: Peuna and PNG CR Services. Peuna brings a wealth of experience in facility management and catering services, while PNGCR brings to the table facility ownership and construction and maintenance capability. This partnership ensures high-quality service, top-tier security, and international hospitality standards for all guests.

Green Hills Accommodation ticks the boxes of affordable, comfortable and fully serviced accommodation.

Rooms and Inclusions

With 83 well-appointed rooms, Green Hills Accommodation Village offers:

• 71 Standard Rooms – 370 PGK + GST per night
• 12 Premium Rooms – 430 PGK + GST per night
• Executive Suite for a luxurious stay
• A conference / training room.

All room rates include:

• Buffet meals (breakfast, lunch & dinner) in a restaurant with international food safety (HACCP – ISO2200) certification.
• Unlimited Wi-Fi
• Laundry services
• Daily housekeeping
• Access to recreational spaces, outdoor gym & basketball court
• Conference room, with catering services available

Premium Rooms Added Luxury & Perks

Guests who opt for a Premium Room enjoy exclusive benefits such as:

• Daily amenities service
• Workspace
• In-room espresso machine with coffee pods
• Beverage vouchers for each night of stay

Dining & Social Spaces

The restaurant has international food safety certification (HACCP – ISO22000) and serves buffet meals with quick service for busy professionals.

If guests prefer a wind down, the on-site Fairfax Bar opens on Monday to Friday (4:30 PM – 9:30 PM) and extended hours on weekends, serving a range of beverages to choose from.

There is always something to look forward to at Green Hill’s Fairfax Bar – a friendly bar perfect for unwinding after a hard day with a view of the Fairfax harbour, great sunset vistas and icey-cold beer. If you ever want to catch a game you can be sure it will be showing on our big screen. Fairfax has different offerings throughout the week such as:

• Friday Pizza Night – the team will make you a bespoke pizza from our selection of toppings and cook it right there and then. 
• ‘Sunday Specials’ - a great way to step out in the afternoon for Hot dogs and burgers topped off with live entertainment.
• Saturday night barbeques which provide an opportunity to step outside and network to further grow guests’ connections.
• Even for the last Saturdays of every month, there is a live entertainment and a chance to show off your karaoke skills!

If you are a coffee and chat type of person, the Green Hills Village has Bunka Café, a perfect spot for meetings over coffee.

Security & Convenience at the Forefront

Guest safety is priority at the Green Hills Accommodation Village having 24/7 security provided by G4S and an additional security firm, ensuring a safe and peaceful environment.

Several leisure options are provided for guests, including a track walk around the area, gym sessions, and basket games.

For hassle-free travel, we offer airport transfers through National Security Service (NSS), a trusted service with armed escorts to guarantee your safety from arrival to departure.

Green Hills offers customized packages for large groups, with no extra allowances or ‘per diems’ required! Our all-inclusive pricing provides significant savings compared to other accommodation options.

Book Your Stay Today!

Whether you're in Port Moresby for work, meetings, or long-term projects, Green Hills Accommodation Village ensures a comfortable, secure, and hassle-free experience.

For bookings and inquiries, contact Green Hills Hospitality Services Limited today and experience the best corporate accommodation!

NiuDeck from PNG Forest Products is a cost-effective heavy plywood decking system, purpose designed and engineered for re-decking traditional timber and steel bridges for road, wharf and rail applications.

With a treatment warranty of 50+ years, NiuDeck requires little maintenance due to PNGFP’s unique veneer preservation treatment, which ensures complete protection from termites, fungal decay and rotting. Quick and easy to install, the product’s durability and longevity are further enhanced with the application of a bitumen surface.

Another great advantage of NiuDeck is its facility to widen existing bridges through the use of cantilevers. This allows for the provision of pedestrian walkways or wider lanes for vehicle safety.

The product’s light weight and ease of installation adds to the cost savings with ease of transport and shortened installation time, making NiuDeck a far more cost-effective solution than other building materials such as concrete and steel.

NiuDeck is manufactured from 100% sustainable PNG plantation pine and capitalises on the advantages of natural timber, which is not subject to fatigue failure, unlike other materials such as steel and concrete.

Suitable for a range of load conditions including Austroads T44 and AS 5100 Bridge Design, NiuDeck is used widely by local and state governments in Australia and New Zealand due to the product’s superior strength, light weight, durability, flexibility, fast installation time and low cost.

The peak body for the timber industry in Queensland has welcomed these products as a demonstration of the versatility and innovation of using Engineered Wood Products in bridge construction.

“Using prefabricated timber systems in bridges is gaining greater market recognition due to their inherent strength, light weight and low carbon emissions footprint compared to other construction materials”, said the CEO of Timber Queensland, Mick Stephens.

PNG Ports Corporation, the owner of 15 of PNG’s ports including the international terminals of Port Moresby and Lae, is pleased to announce the appointment of Deborah Onga as Chief Commercial Officer, effective 1 April 2025.

Onga will head the Commercial Division with some of her core responsibilities being further commercialisation of Ports assets, the development of the Lae Industrial Park and stakeholder management.

Onga brings a wealth of experience across multiple sectors include maritime, logistics and property development.

"PNG Ports is delighted to have secured Ms Onga as our Chief Commercial Officer” said Neil Papenfus (CEO, PNG Ports).  “Not only is she an exceptional corporate commercial lawyer, but she also brings with her considerable experience specific to several of our corporate objectives, including those pertaining to large-scale land development projects, as well as to our multi-million Kina port refurbishment programme.”

Papenfus also pointed out that Onga’s appointment is in accordance with PNG Ports’ gender equality programme, as well as the Government’s.

Onga expressed her enthusiasm about joining PNG Ports. "I am honoured to join one of our Nation’s SOEs and look forward to contributing to its legacy of driving PNG’s development and prosperity.  I am also thrilled by the prospect of playing a leading role in helping shape a new era of innovation and commercial excellence for PNG Ports.

Papua New Guinea (PNG) CR Services has successfully completed the construction of the dormitories and mess hall supporting the first Regional Centre of Excellence (RCOE) under the Pacific Policing Initiative (PPI).

The facility was officially opened on March 21 in Port Moresby by Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) Deputy Commissioner Dr. Philip Mitna and Australian Federal Police (AFP) Assistant Commissioner Nigel Ryan.

Located in Bomana, the state-of-the-art RCOE is the first of four centers to be established across the Pacific to enhance policing capabilities through targeted training and development.

The completion of this landmark project underscores PNG CR’s commitment to excellence in construction and infrastructure development, as it delivered the project to fruition within ambitious timeframes.

The firm’s dedication “to quality, efficiency, and innovation ensured the timely completion of the RCOE, fully aligned with the stakeholders' objectives and the region’s security goals,” the PPI said.

The Australian Federal Police and Australian High Commission (AHC) provided crucial support throughout the initiative.

PNG CR’s CEO, Allen Tyson, expressed gratitude for the continued partnership, thanking the AFP and AHC for their trust.

During the opening ceremony, Deputy Commissioner Dr. Philip Mitna emphasized the importance of the RCOE in strengthening regional security cooperation.

He said: "The police-to-police collaboration between PNG and Australia has never been stronger. This RCOE marks a significant milestone that will equip our officers with the necessary skills to address emerging security challenges."

AFP Assistant Commissioner Ryan added: "The AFP is proud to see the completion of the first RCOE, made possible by our close collaboration with Pacific partners.”

“This facility, built with PNG CR's expertise, will play a pivotal role in empowering law enforcement agencies to combat cross-border crime," said Ryan.

In a statement, PNG CR Services said it remains committed to supporting PNG’s development by delivering high-quality infrastructure solutions, underscoring its ability to manage large-scale projects and contribute to the growth and security of the region as PNG approaches its 50th Jubilee of Independence.

The Remington Group has officially launched OFC Tech Solutions, marking a new era of innovative ICT, telecommunications, and enterprise solutions for businesses across Papua New Guinea.

OFC Tech Solutions, a 100% PNG-owned company, specialises in high-speed internet, unified communications (NEC-certified PABX systems), cybersecurity, data analytics, and enterprise IT solutions, providing world-class technology tailored for PNG businesses.

The highly anticipated launch event, attended by industry leaders, business executives, and technology enthusiasts, took an exciting turn with a surprise product reveal—the introduction of MaxiNET, OFC Tech Solutions' new ISP brand. MaxiNET promises to deliver high-speed, low-price, best-value internet, addressing the growing demand for affordable and reliable connectivity across the country.

Remington Group CEO Navin Raju highlighted the significance of this milestone, stating:

"The launch of OFC Tech Solutions marks a bold step forward in Papua New Guinea’s digital transformation. For 78 years, the Remington Group has evolved with technology, and today, we further strengthen our commitment to innovation. OFC Tech Solutions is more than just an IT provider—we are a trusted partner, delivering cutting-edge solutions in unified communications, cybersecurity, data analytics, and enterprise IT. With the introduction of MaxiNET, we’re ensuring businesses and individuals in PNG have access to high-speed, affordable, and reliable internet. Together, we are shaping a smarter, more connected future for Papua New Guinea."

Industry experts also took the stage, with Kevin Jesop Subject Matter Expert from IBM speaking on unlocking the power of AI, while Dr. Amit Chaubey from NIAD Technologies shared insights into the future of cybersecurity.

With the launch of OFC Tech Solutions and MaxiNET, the Remington Group continues its commitment to driving PNG’s digital transformation, empowering businesses with cutting-edge solutions, and ensuring that technology is both accessible and impactful for Papua New Guineans.

Four young Solomon Islanders have been awarded maritime cadetship scholarships with PNG marine services company, Pacific Towing (PacTow).  Upon graduating as Officers of the Watch from the international program of theoretical as well as practical training, the awardees will initially be employed at PacTow’s tug base in Honiara.  PacTow anticipates offering additional scholarships to Solomon Islanders in its quest to bolster its own workforce in the region, as well as to help grow Solomon Islands’ next generation of seafaring professionals.  As an equal opportunity employer, the company is particularly keen to recruit additional female cadets.

Founded in PNG in 1977, PacTow introduced its first cadetship programme more than two decades ago.  In 2018 it invested in another programme focussed purely on fast tracking the seafaring careers of women.  The ‘Women in Maritime’ cadetship programme is in partnership with the Australian Government, Consort Express Lines, and Swire Shipping.  Both cadetship programmes take four years to complete.

The recently awarded Solomon Islander scholarship holders will undertake approximately eight months of preliminary study and work experience in Solomon Islands prior to embarking on their actual cadetships in January 2026.  This April will see the awardees commence nearly two months of basic seafaring training, including Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) training, at the Maritime College of Solomon Islands National University.  They will then gain valuable practical work experience at PacTow’s Honiara tugboat operation until the end of the year.

Early 2026 will see the awardees relocate to Fiji to undertake a full year of study at the National University’s Pacific Centre for Maritime Studies (PCMS). General Manager of Pacific Towing, Gerard Kasnari concedes that he had initially planned for the awardees to commence their Fiji studies this year.  However, he believes that “the preliminary study and practical experience they get in Honiara over the next eight months will be a great advantage to them in the classroom in Fiji.”

Upon successful completion of their studies at PCMS the cadets will undertake two years of sea-time training.  Consort Express Lines, one of PacTow’s sister companies and PNG’s largest coastal shipping operation, will provide the cadets with coastal shipping experience.  International experience, on considerably larger and more technically advanced vessels on some of the world’s busiest shipping routes, is slated to take place on Swire Shipping vessels.  The cadets will also work on PacTow’s fleet of tugs during this two-year period where they will assist vessels berth and unberth, as well as be exposed to emergency operations such as salvages and oil spill responses.

Once the cadets have completed their two years of sea-time they will return to PCMS in Fiji for additional study and their exams.  Upon graduating as ‘Officers of the Watch’ – either Deck or Engine – they will take up full time employment with PacTow.  However, their qualifications will also enable them to later secure employment across a broad spectrum of maritime operations throughout Melanesia, as well as much further afield.

Kasnari notes that “Melanesia has an aging seafaring workforce, the international standards which we operate to are getting higher, and vessels are becoming more sophisticated.  As a business we therefore need to be training a new generation of maritime professionals – men and women – to ensure that we not only have enough seafarers to operate, but that we also have the very best.  Also, as a good corporate citizen, and as a well-established and successful business that has prospered from our operations in the region, it is important for PacTow to ‘give back’.  Helping Solomon Islands grow its maritime workforce is just one of the ways we’re doing this.  We would also like to invest in maritime scholarships for young Fijians if our business expands further there as planned.”

***

PacTow has had a permanent business operation in Solomon Islands since 2012.  In addition to its core business of harbour towage it has conducted a number of salvages in Solomon Islands’ waters.  Likewise, it has conducted salvages in Fiji where it also has a registered business.

PacTow is Melanesia’s largest marine services business.  It employs more than 250 staff and has a fleet of 20 vessels.   It provides a broad spectrum of marine services including towage, emergency response, commercial diving, life raft services, and salvage.  PacTow is part of a larger sea and land logistics group wholly owned by Steamships Limited.  To learn more about PacTow:  www.pacifictowingmarineservices.com.

Sago Network announces the appointment of Mr Douveri Henao as Patron for the community development organisation which has a focus on improving the health of PNG’s villages through water, sanitation and hygiene programmes. This announcement is made after Mr Henao officially agreed to the 2-year role on 25th February 2025.

Sago Network’s board of directors honours Douveri Henao with this unprecedented role of Patron, for his consistent support of Sago Network’s community work over the past 10 years. It was during the Barakau Sanitation Programme in 2015 that Sago Network first benefitted from Mr Douveri’s generosity, hospitality and wisdom. It was also during that programme that Mr Henao came to see, first hand, the love Sago Network has for the people of Papua New Guinea and its unyielding commitment to try and help lift standard of living through water and sanitation advancements.

“Sago network combines two important relationships. First: Smart people applying smart solutions. The combination of local knowledge and STEM skills in WASH is critical for nation building. Second: new generation of Australia - PNG professionals investing in our nations’ special relationship. Ideas, debates and laughs must be the focus, and this is what Sago Network inspires. I look forward enhancing these relationships vital for our livelihoods.”, said Mr Henao.

Since inception in 2008, Sago Network has partnered with 97 villages, providing safe sanitation options to approximately 7,500 individuals and safe drinking water to more than 35,000 people.

Mr Henao’s agreement to become Sago Network’s first Patron celebrates our shared commitment to improve lives for the people of Papua New Guinea. With Mr Henao’s support to promote the work of Sago Network, the organisation is energised to continue in its mission to improve health and wellbeing of the people of Papua New Guinea through water, sanitation and health initiatives in collaboration with rural and remote communities.

In a significant step toward improving early childhood education in Papua New Guinea, a brand-new Early Library Learning Central has officially opened through the generous support of Lae Biscuit Company Ltd through its charity arm, The Chow Foundation, in partnership with Buk Bilong Pikinini.

This initiative aims to provide young children with access to quality books, learning materials, and literacy programs, helping to lay a strong foundation for their future education.

The Early Library Learning Central located at the St Steven Catholic School in Lae will service the 3mile area for early childhood literacy, digital learning and interactive storytelling sessions, ensuring children develop a love for reading and learning from an early age.

Speaking at the opening, Mr John Chow, Managing Director of Lae Biscuit Company Ltd and The Chief Executive Officer of The Chow Foundation, emphasized the company’s commitment to community development:

“Education is a collective responsibility, and today, we celebrate the power of partnerships. This centre is not just a building—it represents hope, opportunity, and progress. It is a testament to what can be achieved when the government, the private sector, community organizations, and families work together towards a common goal. It is the key to a brighter future, and we are proud to support this initiative that will empower young minds. Through the Chow Foundation, we are dedicated to giving back to our communities and ensuring that every child has access to quality learning resources."

Buk Bilong Pikinini, a leading non-profit organization promoting literacy in PNG, expressed gratitude for the partnership, highlighting the importance of corporate support in bridging the education gap.

The Early Library Learning Central is part of an ongoing effort to enhance literacy rates and create opportunities for underprivileged children across the country. With continued support from the private sector and organizations like Buk Bilong Pikinini, the future of education in PNG looks promising.

Ok Tedi Mining Limited’s (OTML) Senior Aquatic Ecologist, Gilton Alimaka, recently participated in an intensive 24-day training in Perth Western Australia, conducted by Sustainable Leaders in Resources (SLR) Consulting.

The training was focused on laboratory processing, taxonomic identification, and statistical methods for assessing aquatic organisms (micro and macro invertebrates) and ecosystem.

The training was aimed at enhancing OTML’s ecological team’s skills in analysing macroinvertebrate samples, accurately identifying species, and using statistical tools to assess environmental data.

This acquired knowledge is crucial for monitoring water quality and ecosystem health, particularly in areas affected by mining.

OTML Manager Environment Department, Erizo Kepe said, “Aquatic macroinvertebrates, such as mayflies and snails, are vital indicators of water quality. The ability to identify these species accurately helps in assessing environmental health, especially in ecosystems impacted by mining.”

The training included hands-on exercises with real data, teaching participants statistical methods like Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Non-metric Multidimensional Scaling (NMDS) to analyse ecological patterns and track environmental changes.

Ms Kepe said, “This training strengthens OTML’s ability to monitor the environmental impact of mining, assess water quality, and predict long-term effects. The new skills also support OTML’s commitment to scientific accuracy, regulatory compliance, and environmental best practices.”

By sharing this knowledge with colleagues, the training creates a culture of continuous learning thus improving the team’s overall capability to address environmental challenges. OTML’s enhanced ecological expertise contributes to better decision-making, sustainable practices, and a stronger reputation in the industry.

The training is part of the Environment Department’s ongoing effort to upskill its team in their specialised scientific fields to operate more efficiently while reducing dependency on external expertise.

Ok Tedi Mining Limited (OTML) has launched its University Talent Management (UTM) Application, designed to streamline the process for students intending to participate in OTML’s University Internship Program.

This new application managed by OTML’s Training & Capability Development (T&CD) Department, aims to enhance the management of the University Student Industrial Training Program, supporting placements at the mid-year and end-of-year intervals.

All Industrial Training applications will be submitted through the UTM Application.

This centralisation will ensure that no applications will be processed outside of the UTM system, maintaining a streamlined, transparent, and efficient process for both students and the respective departments within OTML.

The system will allow eligible students from OTML’s partner universities, including Unitech, UPNG, DWU, and PAU, to express their interest and apply directly through the platform.

The Application Link and the QR Code will be made available through their respective universities’ websites and managed by the respective Scholarship and Students Career Affairs Teams for eligible students to express their interest.

The program will primarily focus on third-year students who maintain a GPA of 3.5 or higher, with second and fourth-year students considered based on operational needs and availability of accommodation. Students from Western Province, with a GPA of 3.0 or above, are encouraged to apply, increasing opportunities available for local talent.

Manager Training & Capability Development Ian Strachan said, “We are excited to roll out the University Talent Management Application, which will significantly enhance how we connect the requirements for the University Internship Program from OTML Departments to eligible students.”

The UTM application will play a crucial role in aligning OTML’s Industrial Training Program with the needs of both the business and the students. It reflects OTML’s commitment to supporting the development of Papua New Guinea’s future workforce while nurturing partnerships with local universities.