A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed to significantly improving digital connectivity in Jiwaka province was signed recently between PNG DataCo Limited (DataCo) and the Jiwaka Provincial Government. The MOU outlines a collaborative effort to connect Jiwaka Province to the National Transmission Network (NTN) as well as to provide Data Centre and Cloud Services in priority areas identified by the provincial government. Under the terms of the MOU, Jiwaka Province commits to Collaborate with DataCo to identify priority areas for internet and cloud service rollout, to provide necessary logistical support, including site identification and permitting. The Jiwaka Provincial Government will work with DataCo to raise awareness and promote the adoption of these services within the community and to cover the costs associated with connectivity and services in the designated priority areas. Conversely, DataCo pledges to collaborate with the Jiwaka Provincial Government to assess and address internet and cloud service needs. Dataco will design and implement a robust and secure network infrastructure throughout the province and also provide ongoing technical support and expertise to ensure the smooth operation of the services. During the signing of the MOU, Governor for Jiwaka, Simon Kaiwi, stated that Jiwaka is a new Province that is only 12 years old, thus they are still behind on a lot of things, however the province is progressing slowly. He said one of the main areas he is focusing on as the Governor for the province is the Education Sector. “I see the need to educate our children, because without education for our children, we will have restless community.” “I see education is fundamental for human development and I am so happy to sign the MOU on behalf of Jiwaka Provincial Government so students can have access to information and internet for development.” Governor Kaiwi further added that the world is heading in the internet communications technology direction, hence PNG is taking the same direction to be able to better educate its people to compete in country and abroad. “We will be working together to get the system up and running in the province.” Also speaking during the signing was PNG DataCo CEO, Mr. Paul Komboi. Mr. Komboi announced that it was a privileged to partner with Jiwaka Provincial Government, adding that people are the greatest asset in the country and that people without knowledge will not be able to optimize the country’s natural resources or take part in developing our economy. “We are bringing in this enabling infrastructure to improve health, education, law and order and also in the greater public and private sector.” “We want to deliver internet technology to all the schools in Jiwaka province to bring them up to speed so they can contribute meaningfully to the development of this nation.” Komboi further added that after the signing of the MOU Dataco will implement internet throughout Jiwaka Province, connecting Jinwaka Province with the rest of the world. “Our target is aligned with the MDTP 4 where we want to connect all districts throughout the country with fiber optic infrastructure where possible.”