The Minister for Higher Education Research, Science and Technology, Kinoka Feo will be amongst the distinguish speakers to speak at the 2026 Resource Week that is set to commence tomorrow in Port Moresby city.

Minister Feo will be addressing a key topic on the National Government’s mission to strengthen higher education and TVET institutions in the country, during the 2026 PNG Resources Week from 13-18 July.

Mr. Feo’s presentation on “aligning education development with future workforce and industry needs,” comes at a critical time as the industry looks forward to welcoming new investments that are likely to create more job opportunities across the country.

The Minister will outline how Papua New Guinea (PNG) is strengthening its higher education system and TVET by improving access, quality and ensuring education remains relevant to the needs of industry and for the country.

He will also discuss the importance of collaboration between government, industry, education institutions and development partners in preparing the workforce PNG needs for the future.

The PNG Chamber of Resources & Energy (PNG CORE) Executive Director, Mr. Richard Kassman, OBE has acknowledged Minister Feo’s presentation and highlighted how vital it is for the industry and the government to work hand-in-hand.

"Building a skilled workforce and increasing PNG participation in procure and supply chains is achievable through strategic collaboration between the State and industry,” stated Mr. Kassman.

Amongst several major steps undertaken by the department to address skills development, Minister Feo and Australia's High Commissioner Ewen McDonald last month launched the Pacific Australia

Skills Program (PASP) initiative at the Port Moresby Technical College aimed at strengthening PNG's national skills systems by creating better employment pathways and preparing the workforce for emerging industries.

Minister Feo noted during that launch that collaboration is key to developing future prosperity.

As PNG’s resource sector continues to expand more, training local workers will create a sustainable, skilled workforce and keep wealth inside PNG, empower citizens, and prevent project delays.