Leaders in the Middle Fly District of Western Province have reaffirmed their commitment to education and community development with the extension of a key partnership between the Middle Fly District Development Authority (DDA) and the Ok Tedi Development Foundation (OTDF).

On 6th January at the OTDF office in Kiunga, the two organizations signed a new Memorandum of Understanding, extending their collaboration through to December 2026.

The agreement secures continued scholarship funding and development support aligned with the district’s broader priorities.

Currently 208 students from Middle Fly are receiving financial support through the programme to study at various tertiary and vocational institutions.

This initiative has opened opportunities for young people to gain valuable skills that can contribute to local development.

At the signing event, Middle Fly Member of Parliament Maso Hewabi and Middle Fly DDA Chief Executive Officer Mr. Petrus Malongim, underscored the importance of education as a long-term investment in the district’s future.

Hewabi praised OTDF’s efforts over the past two years, noting the positive impact increased access to education has had on families across the region.

OTDF Acting Chief Executive Officer Mr. Andrew Mari highlighted the partnership’s accountability measures, stating that all funds provided by the DDA are dedicated solely to student scholarships, while OTDF covers its own administrative expenses to ensure transparency.

The renewed agreement reflects a shared vision to empower more young people from Middle Fly through education and to support broader community development efforts.

With this strengthened partnership, both organizations aim to deliver sustainable benefits for residents throughout the district.