Up to 229 vocational students will be getting a first-hand look at mining operations, thanks to a new deal between the Morehead Vocational Centre and Ok Tedi Mining Limited (OTML).
Under the memorandum of understanding, signed on August 14, students can participate in hands-on, on-the-job training with the mining company. The collaboration helps to ensure secured practical placements for students – considered a vital component of their educational development.
Morehead is the second school, alongside the Kiunga Vocational School, to be onboarded as a training partner.
OTML said the training opportunities affirmed its commitment to further develop the youth of Western Province.
OTML manager of training Ian Strachan said the company was dedicated to facilitating vocational training, even when the students don’t carry the experience into employment with the mine.
“Ok Tedi is committed to building Papua New Guinea’s workforce,” he said. “Our ongoing training initiatives – including preferred area development training, apprenticeship training, industrial training and the graduate development scheme demonstrates our commitment.”
Morehead Vocational Centre manager Ken Ware Potang said the collaboration was a pivotal moment for the school.
“This collaboration marks a tremendous blessing to our 229 students and the broader South Fly community,” he said.
“Ok Tedi is not just rescuing Morehead Vocational, they are also securing the future of our students. Despite pursuing various courses, many of our students had previously struggled to find hands-on training opportunities.”
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