Twenty-nine students supported through the education subsidy program managed by the Mineral Resources Development Company (MRDC), graduated from the Papua New Guinea University of Technology (UNITECH) during the University’s 58th Graduation Ceremony, held from 16th to 17th of April 2026.
This 2026 graduating cohort represents the largest number of graduates since the inception of the education subsidy programs administered under MRDC’s Gas, Mining, and Petroleum Resource Education Subsidy initiatives.
Of the 29 graduates, ten completed degrees in engineering and related technologies; eight in business and finance-related disciplines; four in communication and media studies; three in agriculture; two in information technology; and two in natural and physical sciences—reflecting the diversity of academic pathways supported by MRDC’s education programs.
Among the graduates was Dr Imen Ita Papa, a sponsored student under the Mineral Resources Community Mine Continuation Agreement (CMCA) Education Subsidy Program. Dr Papa successfully completed his doctoral thesis titled “The Sustainability of Socio-Economic Benefits of Impacted Communities of Mining Projects Beyond Post-Mine Life in Papua New Guinea: A Case Study of the Western Province” and was conferred with a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Geomatics.
Dr Papa’s research contributes to a broader understanding of how mining-impacted communities can achieve sustainable socio-economic outcomes beyond the operational life of resource projects.
MRDC Chief Risk Officer, Ms Valentina Kaman, and General Manager – External Affairs, Mr Barthemelow Yacop, attended the graduation ceremonies to acknowledge the students’ achievements and share in the celebrations with parents, guardians, and families.
“Graduation is not just a ceremony, but a full-circle moment. They reflect the dedication of the students and the commitment of community boards that have prioritised education and created opportunities for their students to pursue tertiary qualifications,” Ms Kaman said.
Also celebrating their academic achievements were Natalie Vulupindi and Elizabeth Ruku, 2025 recipients of the MRDC Imbi Tagune Scholarship Program, who graduated with bachelor’s degrees in communication for Development Studies. Both graduates were recognised for their outstanding academic performance.
Commenting on the Imbi Tagune Scholarship Program, Mr Yacop said the initiative continues to deliver meaningful outcomes.
“This marks the third cohort of graduates under the Imbi Tagune Scholarship Program, and we are proud of the achievements to date. Natalie and Elizabeth now join a growing group of graduates who will contribute meaningfully to their organisations and communities,” Mr Yacop said.
