Customary landownership, workforce development and opportunities for young Papua New Guineans will take centre stage during this year's PNG Resources Week.
PNG Chamber of Resources and Energy Executive Director Richard Kassman say the week-long event has been designed to promote meaningful discussions on the future of the country's resource sector while preparing the next generation for careers in mining, petroleum and energy.
Mr. Kassman said one of the major topics will be customary landownership, which he described as a unique feature of Papua New Guinea's resource industry.
He said with about 95 per cent of the country's land held under customary ownership, landowners remain key stakeholders in resource development.
As part of the program, the Chair of the Parliamentary Bipartisan Committee on Customary Land Ownership, Keith Iduhu, is expected to lead discussions on the future direction of customary landownership and its relationship with the Mining Act and Oil and Gas Act.
Mr. Kassman said the Chamber wants to improve public understanding of these issues and address misconceptions surrounding landowner participation in major resource projects.
National content will also be a major focus throughout the week, covering three key areas—local business participation, workforce development and community investment.
Mr. Kassman said Papua New Guinea's resource projects must continue creating opportunities for local companies, investing in skills development and supporting education, health and agriculture in project areas.
A key feature of the event will be the Golden Exposition, where resource companies and service providers will showcase career pathways and business opportunities available across the industry.
Around 40 secondary schools in the National Capital District, along with universities and tertiary institutions, have been invited to attend dedicated student days.
Mr. Kassman said companies have been encouraged to bring their human resources teams to engage directly with students and inspire them to consider careers in engineering, science, trades, aviation, logistics and other professions linked to the resource sector.
"We want young Papua New Guineans to see the opportunities available in the industry, think about getting the right education and training, and prepare themselves for the jobs of the future," he said.
The week will conclude with the PNG Resource Summit, where government ministers and industry leaders will provide updates on existing resource projects, new developments and ongoing exploration activities in the mining and petroleum sectors.
