KPHL Partners with Education Department to Invest K150 Million in PNG’s Future STEM Leaders

By DALCY LULUA

In a small yet significant move that underscores the importance of science and technology in national development, Kumul Petroleum Holdings Limited (KPHL) has signed a five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Department of Education (DoE) to sponsor Papua New Guinea’s top-performing STEM students for overseas studies.

The agreement was officially announced during a small but significant ceremony attended by KPHL Managing Director Wapu Sonk and Education Secretary Dr Uke Kombra, marking what both leaders described as a milestone moment for the future of education and leadership in PNG.

Speaking during the event, Mr Sonk said the initiative is a direct response to the government’s push to invest in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education as a key pillar for national progress.

“We saw the government policy of focusing on STEM and sending our best brains overseas for training-especially to countries like China, the US, and India,” Mr. Sonk stated. “We’ve come on board to support the government’s efforts in educating our future generations.”

Under the new program, KPHL will fund overseas university placements for the top 30 students graduating annually from the STEM program. These students, considered the top 1% in the country, will begin their studies in August 2025.

The sponsorship program will run for five years, with a projected investment of PGK150 million (approximately USD 30 million).

“This is not just a sponsorship – it’s an investment in our future,” said Mr Sonk. “These students will become the engineers, scientists, and leaders of tomorrow. Our resource sector, including oil, gas, and mining companies, will one day rely on the skills and leadership of these young Papua New Guineans.”

Mr Sonk further acknowledged the collaborative work between KPHL and the Education Department in bringing the initiative to life.

“It’s been a journey working with the Secretary and his team, and we are proud to be part of a program that prepares young Papua New Guineans for the demands of a modern, technologically-driven economy.”

Dr Uke Kombra, who spoke on behalf of the Education Minister and the department, praised KPHL’s bold commitment.

“This is a very noble cause,” said Dr Kombra. “The investment Kumul Petroleum will make will not be wasted-it will bring value to our country. You are investing in something that will bear fruit for years to come.”

Dr Kombra explained that the STEM initiative was originally a visionary policy by Prime Minister James Marape, who launched it during his tenure as Education Minister. However, it wasn’t until 2021 that the department began implementation.

The partnership with KPHL now provides the critical financial backbone to scale the program further.

“We are grateful for the trust and support from KPHL. This partnership will go a long way in transforming our human capital. We’re not just talking about scholarships-we’re talking about building future capacity for national development,” Dr Kombra said.

The official signing of the MoU between KPHL and the Department of Education marks the

start of a long-term commitment to fostering academic excellence, building national expertise, and ensuring PNG is equipped with skilled professionals to lead the country through future challenges.