Ok Tedi Mining Limited (Ok Tedi) strengthened its role as one of the country’s leading investors in human capital with the awarding of its 2026 Undergraduate Scholarships to high performing students at three universities in the country.
As part of its ongoing investment in education and skills development, Ok Tedi recently awarded 21 scholarships to high‑performing students from the Papua New Guinea University of Technology (UNITECH) in Lae, Divine Word University (DWU) and University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG) at its Port Moresby Office. The awards include 11 new third‑year scholars and 10 continuing recipients, representing a total 2026 investment of K593,741.00.
Speaking at the ceremony, Manager Mine Production, Mr Yagatau Hamena, highlighted the company’s legacy in nation building: “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. 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 more fields.”
Ok Tedi’s scholarship program is a key part of its investment in people, which is central to the company’s Growth 2050 Strategy. A strong, capable, Papua New Guinean workforce is essential to ensuring the long‑term sustainability of Ok Tedi operations, community development, and national economic contribution.
The company’s long-term contributions include:
- 689 graduates completed 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 real‑world work experience
- 40 vocational students supported through the on‑the‑job Training program since 2023
- 81 students sponsored through the Undergraduate Scholarship Program
- K37 million invested in training in 2025 alone
Jodanah Malus, a third‑year Computer Science student, expressed gratitude: “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. 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: “I fully embrace this partnership with Ok Tedi. True change for PNG will only come through the development of our human resources. 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 the University of Papua New Guinea, Dr. Lekshmi Pillai, said, “This is not just an ordinary occasion — it is a momentous one that signifies a profound responsibility. 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. It is a chance to grow into individuals who will one day contribute meaningfully to the development of our nation. Ok Tedi has created a legacy through this support; now it is your responsibility to build your own legacy for your country, your community, and your family. Go forward, achieve your dreams, and build sustainable legacies.”
Acting Registrar of Divine Word University, Marie Clare Aribi, said: “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. Your commitment goes beyond financial assistance — it demonstrates a deep dedication to growth, innovation, and meaningful community impact.”
Beyond scholarships, Ok Tedi continues to support UNITECH, UPNG and other tertiary institutions through strategic infrastructure and capacity‑building investments that align to PNG’s national development priorities.
Ok Tedi congratulates all 2026 Undergraduate Scholarship recipients and looks forward to supporting their academic journey and future careers.
Through continued investment in people, education, and community partnerships, Ok Tedi remains committed to building a strong, skilled, and prosperous Papua New Guinea today and for generations to come.