The Institute of Business Studies University (IBSU) has signed its first scholarship Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with a secondary school in Morobe Province, paving the way for eligible students to further their studies.

Students at Markham Valley Secondary School in Markham District now have an opportunity to pursue tertiary studies through the university scholarship programme.

The agreement was formalised on Tuesday, July 7, during a visit by the University's delegation to school. 

Markham Valley Secondary School, located approximately 124 kilometres from Lae City, is one of Morobe Province's largest boarding schools, enrolling more than 1,800 students each year.

The MoU establishes a partnership between the two institutions aimed at creating opportunities for academically deserving students to continue their education through degree programmes offered by IBSUniversity.

Principal Billy Kayo welcomed the partnership, saying it would provide students with opportunities rarely available to secondary schools.

"I have been in education for a very long time, and this is one of the most unique opportunities I have ever heard about," Mr. Kayo said.

He said the partnership would encourage students to perform well academically and provide them with a clear pathway to higher education.

Mr. Kayo also thanked IBSUniversity for selecting Markham Valley Secondary School as the first school in Morobe Province to enter into the scholarship partnership.

According to the IBSUniversity administration, the agreement reflects the university's commitment to working closely with secondary schools to improve access to higher education for students across Papua New Guinea.

The initiative is intended to recognise academic excellence while supporting students to develop the knowledge and skills needed for future careers.

The signing ceremony was attended by members of the IBSUniversity delegation, school administrators, teachers and students.

The partnership makes Markham Valley Secondary School the first secondary school in Morobe Province to enter into a formal scholarship agreement with IBSUniversity and is expected to create greater educational opportunities for future Markham and Morobe human resources.