The Ok Tedi Development Foundation (OTDF) has further strengthened its commitment to education development in the Community Mine Continuation Agreement (CMCA) communities with a K100,000.00 financial contribution towards the building of the Okma Junior High School in the Nupmo Region in Western Province.
A dummy cheque was officially presented on the 31st of December at the OTDF Conference Room by the Acting Chief Executive Officer of OTDF, Mr. Andrew Mari, to representatives of the Okma Junior High School Board. The funding is specifically allocated toward the building and refurbishment of school infrastructure, with the aim of improving learning conditions for students.
Okma Junior High School is in the Nupmo Region within the mine footprint areas of Western Province, an area where access to quality educational facilities remains a key development priority. The investment will support the construction and upgrading of classrooms and other essential facilities, ensuring a safer, more conducive learning environment for both students and teachers.
Mr. Mark Yauram, Okma Junior High School Vice Chairman, thank OTDF for its support towards this social obligation towards the betterment of Okma. During the presentation he said, “On behalf of the people of Okma, I would like to thank OTDF for supporting this social obligation. This investment, a first of its kind, that will work towards something greater for the generations to come.”
Mr. Veao Nami, Acting Program Services Manager, expressed his appreciation to the board for taking up the initiative to address a community need. “What you took up the initiative to do will open doors for the next generation and the next.”
The School Board Chairman during the presentation spoke that you will never go wrong when investing in education.
Speaking during the presentation, Mr. Nali emphasised that the support reflects OTDF’s long-term vision and strategic objectives.
“This support is important because it aligns directly with the goals of the organisation. Education is the pillar of our future, and by investing in school infrastructure, we are investing in the next generation of leaders from our CMCA communities,” Mr. Nali said.
Mr. Mari echoed these sentiments, highlighting that education remains a core pillar of OTDF’s development mandate. He noted that improved infrastructure not only enhances learning outcomes but also encourages school attendance and supports teachers in delivering quality education.
The Okma Junior High School Board welcomed the assistance and expressed sincere appreciation to OTDF for the timelydonation. Board members acknowledged that the funding would greatly assist the school in addressing long-standing infrastructure needs and improving overall education standards for students in the Nupmo Region.
The Ok Tedi Development Foundation continues to work closely with community stakeholders, school boards, and local leaders across Western Province to deliver meaningful and sustainable development outcomes. Through targeted investments in education, health, and community development, OTDF remains committed to empowering CMCA communities and supporting long-term social and economic progress.
