Kumul Petroleum Holdings Limited (KPHL) celebrated that nine individuals had successfully completed their Graduate Development Program, in a ceremony marking the completion of their two-year journey with the company.
During the event, KPHL managing director Wapu Sonk presented certificates of appreciation to the graduates and officially welcomed them into full-time roles with the organisation. He commended their dedication and potential, stating, “This is the beginning of your journey with Kumul Petroleum. It is you young people who will carry the company forward in the future.”
Mr. Sonk emphasised the importance of cultivating local talent to drive national progress. “As the national petroleum and energy company, we need people of your calibre to push the company forward, through your work ethic and respective skill sets,” he said.
He also highlighted the strategic importance of upcoming KPHL projects and the role the graduates will play in ensuring Papua New Guinea maximises benefits from its natural resources. He added, “Our mandate is to the citizens of this country. We work and do what we do so our people benefit from our projects. Other organisations operate for profit – we have a different calling, a responsibility to our people.”
The graduates, who joined the Graduate Development Program in 2023, have now successfully transitioned into divisions within KPHL. Two have joined the Finance Division, while seven have taken up roles in the Operations Division, specifically within the sub-surface and special projects teams.
Throughout their program, they were supported by mentors and supervisors who guided their professional development. Mr. Sonk extended his gratitude to the mentors and supervisors for their leadership, saying, “Your guidance has been instrumental in shaping the future of these young professionals.”
KPHL remains committed to investing in the next generation of Papua New Guinean professionals, ensuring a sustainable future for the nation’s petroleum and energy sector.
