Sponsors officially renew partnership program through MoU
The Maritime Cadetship (MCS) program managed by the Ok Tedi Development Foundation’s (OTDFs) Community Education Services (CES) Division, renewed its partnership with P&O Maritime Services (PNG) LTD to extend its joint program for aspiring cadets on 30 April (Thursday) at the Port Moresby P&O office.
Cadets who meet all grading requirements from the Maritime College entry testing have the opportunity for P&O engagement after the renewal of this The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) as it extends for the next three years from 2026-2029.
Initially launched to alleviate the challenges faced by maritime students and their families in securing appropriate vessels to fulfill their practical training requirements for graduation, the program now creates new avenues for employment with P&O Maritime Logistics upon meeting maritime compliance standards.
Speaking about the signing, Captain Joannes Dominic, General Manager for POMS PNG, said:
“P&O Maritime Logistics remains firmly committed to making a lasting contribution to the communities where we operate. The cadet program is a strategic priority for us, and we are pleased to continue our partnership with OTDF. Through this collaboration, we aim to develop highly competent seafarers while providing sustainable employment opportunities. We look forward to the continued success and mutual benefits of this partnership.”
The partnership has been instrumental in promoting sustainable development and fostering positive change in the region. Captain Joannes has expressed his gratitude for the collaboration with OTDF via the cadet’s program and other community initiatives in the Western Province. Through this latest MoU, maritime cadets who are recipients of the OTDF Maritime Scholarship are eligible to complete their 24-month sea-time experience on-board P&O Maritime Logistics vessels. The renewed agreement maps out the respective roles and responsibilities of OTDF and P&O Maritime Logistics for the implementation of the training that commenced this month.
Equally pleased about the partnership, OTDF Acting CEO Johanis Saferius is confident that the renewal of the P&O & OTDF partnership to train Western Province sailors is consistent with standards of seafaring compliance and better management of the Maritime Scholarship Program managed by OTDF in partnership with P&O Maritime Services (PNG) Limited better known “POMS PNG”.
Mr. Saferius said: “We are not just signing a document, we are securing the future of the shipping industry in Papua New Guinea by ensuring OTDF Maritime Cadets have the best training possible by professional seafarers.”
The Acting CEO emphasised that the OTDF Community Education Services exists to making sure that new intakes and the current trainee cadets in the program are fully supported to complete the cadetship program.
OTDF Executive Manager Program Services Mr. Andrew Mari noted there is a need to increase the number of first class officers in the maritime. Referring to information gathered that Papua New Guinea needed more ship captains.
