L-R Ms Kasi presents a PAD student her Scholarship Offer Letter as part of the orientation session.
On January 27, 2025, the OK Tedi Development Foundation (OTDF) welcomed more than 500 students to its annual scholarship orientation session at the Kiunga Vocational Technical Center in Kiunga, WP. This important event was aimed at guiding both new and returning students through the expectations, policies, and processes of the OTDF scholarship program, which supports educational opportunities for youth in the region.
Led by OTDF scholarship officer Miss Shemila Kasi and her dedicated team, the orientation provided clarity on scholarship requirements and offered practical advice to ensure students make the most of their academic opportunities. The session served as a foundation for the 241 new students joining the program this year. This group included 101 students from the Preferred Area Development (PAD) and 140 students from the eight Community Mine Continuation Agreement (CMCA) Trust Regions.
New students received their scholarship offer letters during the event, marking the beginning of an exciting chapter in their educational journeys. For the 308 continuing students, the session offered an opportunity to update their scholarship data sheets, reaffirming their commitment to maintaining good academic standing.
Miss Kasi highlighted the critical requirement of achieving a Grade Point Average (GPA) of 2.5 or higher for scholarship eligibility. She also highlighted the vital role parents play in supporting their children’s academic success.
“Parents have a significant part to play,” Miss Kasi said. “They need to ensure their children are ready for study, as the sponsorship process can take time. Parental commitment is crucial in helping students secure a place at their institution before scholarship payments are made.”
The session also included a motivational address from Jim John, a former OTDF scholarship recipient who pursued studies in Journalism and Public Relations at the University of Papua New Guinea. John encouraged the students to stay focused on their goals, congratulated them on their achievements so far, and reminded them of the importance of maintaining a strong GPA.
“Your education is your responsibility. Make it count, and don’t let this opportunity go to waste,” John urged the students.
Logistical challenges were also addressed during the orientation. Due to a fuel shortage affecting Air Niugini flights in Kiunga and Tabubil, Miss Kasi is working to arrange alternative travel options. These include the use of OTML Charter flights (Pride of Tabubil) and PNG Air for students from the PAD and Nupmo Trust Region. Students from other Trust Regions were advised to coordinate their travel through the Community Relations office in Kiunga or Tabubil.
“While we are making every effort to assist, the availability of seats on OTML flights is limited, as employee travel is prioritized,” Miss Kasi explained.
The orientation concluded with a renewed sense of determination among the students, many of whom left feeling inspired and equipped to begin or continue their educational journeys. For the OTDF, this program is more than just a financial commitment—it is an investment in the future of Western Province and PAD areas, helping to nurture a new generation of leaders and professionals.
The success of the scholarship program is evident in the achievements of its graduates, who have gone on to contribute significantly in various sectors, thereby enhancing the socio-economic fabric of the Western Province. OTDF remains steadfast in its mission to support and expand educational opportunities, recognizing that education is a cornerstone for sustainable development and prosperity in the region