By GEORGINA MICHAEL
PNG Power Limited has revived its apprenticeship program and aims to recruit 200 apprentices after six years of closure due to financial constraints.
This is a bold initiative to train and empower young trades people who will become the backbone of the nation’s electricity sector.
Vice Minister for State Enterprises Raphael Tonopi, who attended the said the program is a national priority.
Mr Tonopi said: “The apprenticeship program directly supports the Marape-Rosso Government’s agenda to expend technical and vocational pathways, reduce unemployment and build resilience in the critical industries. To the apprentices, your work will light homes, power hospitals, schools, manufacturing industries and drive economic growth, making you all the nation builders in your own rights.”
PNG Power Chief Executive Paul Bayly further highlighted the company’s operational commitment and the vital role of apprentices.
Mr Bayly said: “This isn’t just a training scheme. It is a strategic investment in the people who will keep the lights on, the turbines turning and the nation moving forward.PNG power needs your energy, your curiosity and your commitment. Together, we are not just building trades people we’re building a stronger, starter and more resilient PNG Power.”
“The apprentices will rotate through PNG Power centers, learn from seasonal professionals and complete block courses at the Training college. At the end of your 4 year journey, you will graduate not only will certificates but with the skills and confidence to lead the organization into a new era.”
The apprenticeship program is of 4years long of which every 10weeks will be on campus whilst 14 weeks will be practical out in the field until the four years and they will be certified with tradesmen certificates.
PNG Power has recruited 200 apprentices’ through the apprenticeship program for this year, however the first batch 100 (16 females and 84 males) were inducted today and the next 100 will be inducted later this year. The five critical trades fields that they’ll be undertaking includes, electrical fitting, electrical lines mechanic, power station operator, diesel mechanic and hydro mechanic.
Caretaker Director of the National Apprenticeship and Training Testing Board(NATTB) John Maraga, who administers the whole apprenticeship program, told the apprentices that skilled training was the backbone of the country.
“Skill training skill manpower is the backbone of our country. Hence be assets to PNG Power and contribute meaningfully the organization as well as your country whilst equipping yourselves will lifetime skills,” Mr Maraga said.
The revival of the apprenticeship program signaled more than just a program restart, it is a declaration of intent. PNG Power and the government are investing in the people, in skills and in the future of Papua New Guinea.
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