TWENTY-SEVEN final year University of Technology Forestry students received certificates for a 60-day training work programme with the PNG Forest Authority (PNGFA).
PNG Forest Authority Managing Director John Mosoro congratulated the students on Thursday stating: “They have made the right decision to become foresters”.
Mr. Mosoro said forestry today is not only to do with logging but is a global asset.
“Forest is an asset in the global world in terms of being an economic and social commodity as well as providing food and shelter for people,” he said.
Mosoro commended the Forest directors, managers and trainers for doing a successful job in the training of the students.
“When given a task or a job, take extra effort and time in it and bring out the best outcomes,” he said.
The trainer Mr Cosmas Numbaru, Manager Reforestation and Afforestation Branch (R&A) said, the training programme was an initiative between PNGFA and Unitech to allow Forestry students to undergo professional training before going into the workforce.
He said this MoU was signed last year August 25th in Lae, Morobe Province.
Mr Numbaru thanked MD Mosoro for the initiative and support to the programme.
Forest Minister Salo Waipo who presented the students their certificate said it was a great achievement for them and their families.
“Young people are the pride of this country. What you have achieved today marks a milestone in your life careers,” Minister Waipo said.
Final year student, Wesley Wilson said he is privileged to be part of this training.
The certificate presentation ceremony coincided with a signing of contracts by PNG Forest Authority executives.
It also marked the end of a successful 2024 with the presentation of gifts as well as special luncheon.