(L-R) Ok Tedi Development Foundation Acting CEO and Hon. Maso Hewabi sign the MOU
(Backrow L-R) OTDF Acting Executive Manager Corporate Services Mr. Raphael Nali and MFDDA CEO Mr. Petrus Malongim stand to witness.
The Middle Fly District Development Authority (DDA) has signed another Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Ok Tedi Development Foundation (OTDF), extending their partnership from January to December this year to support scholarships and other development programs aligned with district priorities.
While a significant portion of the agreement continues to focus on education assistance and scholarships, the partnership will also support other programs implemented by OTDF that align with the Middle Fly DDA’s development plans. Through the education program alone, 208 students from the Middle Fly District have already been sponsored to pursue studies at various institutions.
The MOU signing was attended by Honourable Maso Hewabi, Member for Middle Fly District, and Mr. Petrus Malongim, Chief Executive Officer of the Middle Fly District Development Authority, who both emphasised the importance of education in the district’s development.
Hon. Maso Hewabi thanked OTDF for its role in delivering the scholarship program.
“I want to thank OTDF for the successful delivery of the scholarships program in the last two years. With your support and by working hand in hand, 208 students have been sponsored under the MFDDA,” he said.
Speaking during the signing, OTDF Acting Chief Executive Officer Mr. Andrew Mari thanked the Middle Fly DDA for recognising OTDF’s role and having confidence in the Foundation to deliver the education program.
“The funding that OTDF receives from the MFDDA is solely for scholarship expenses. The administrative costs are covered under OTDF. This partnership adds value to our relationship and enables us to make a positive and meaningful contribution to Western Province”, Mr. Mari said. “Let our communities judge us for our actions and not our words,” he added.
Under the MOU, OTDF will continue to manage and administer the scholarship program and other agreed programs in close coordination with the Middle Fly DDA, ensuring transparency, accountability, and alignment with district priorities.
The renewed partnership reflects a shared commitment to investing in education and community development, aiming to create lasting benefits for the people of the Middle Fly District.
