New Porgera Limited (NPL) has reinforced its commitment to local skills development, with a significant donation of equipment and technology to a local vocational training centre.
The Laiagam Appropriate Technology Centre (LATC), in Enga province close to New Porgera’s well-known gold mine, received over PGK33,000 ($11,700) worth of essential equipment and digital tools.
The donation included a set of new and used motor vehicle components for hands-on training in automotive mechanics. The comprehensive set included an engine assembly, transmission, clutch pressure plate, starter motor, alternator, and rear differential assembly.
The company also provided 10 full sets of new and refurbished computers, including software licences.
LATC Manager Jennifer Simon said the centre had enjoyed long-standing support from the Porgera mine.
“In the past, the Porgera joint venture has supported LATC with job training for students, infrastructure maintenance through the tax credit scheme, and donations of computers, generator, engines, welding machines, and other tools and equipment,” she said.
“We appreciate NPL for continuing this relationship.”
NPL acting corporate social responsibility manager Meck Minnala said vocational schools like LATC offer highly-relevant training opportunities to young people.
“About 80% of jobs at the Porgera mine require technical expertise – whether tradespeople or graduates from institutions like LATC,” he said.
“By enrolling in these courses, students are preparing not only for potential roles at the mine but also gaining life-long skills that will support them in many other fields.”
LATC offers conventional certificate programs in information technology, motor vehicle mechanics, welding, and metal fabrication.
It sees over 200 students graduating annually, many with additional industrial training at the Porgera mine.
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