MRDC Education Subsidy Program 2026 Open! APPLY NOW!

The Mineral Resources Development Company (MRDC) has officially opened applications for the 2026 Education Subsidy Program, which provides tuition support to students from mining, gas, and petroleum project areas across Papua New Guinea. Since its launch in 2022, the program has supported over 8,800 students, ensuring that children from project-impacted communities can continue their education with fewer financial barriers.

Key Dates

• Applications Open: 28 October 2025
• Applications Close: 02 January 2026
• Vetting and Selection: 05 – 23 January 2026
• Announcement of Successful Candidates: 26 January 2026
• Payment of Fees to Institutions: 03 February 2026

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify, applicants must:

1. Have completed Grade 12.
2. Be a direct beneficiary from a project area as defined by the project MOAs, tribe of origin, ILG or clan.
3. Meet the minimum entry qualifications for technical, trade, or vocational institutions.
4. Be currently enrolled or accepted into an institution recognized by DHERST or the National Training Council.
5. Submit a fully completed application form endorsed by the ILG/Clan Chairman.
6. Provide an acceptance or confirmation letter from the institution.
7. Include a Character Reference Letter from a ward councillor, pastor, or school teacher.

Application Process

• Forms Available:
  Downloadable electronic forms (PDF) are available at www.mrdc.com.pg or by emailing scholarships@mrdc.com.pg.
  Hard copies will also be distributed to communities from November 2025 to January 2026.
• Submission:
  Ensure all e-copies are in PDF format and clearly scanned. Incomplete or unclear applications will not be considered.

Eligible Trustee Companies and Project Areas

Petroleum:

• Petroleum Resources Kutubu Limited (PDL 2) – Fasu (Lower & Upper), Foe, Kikori PL2 (Kibiri, Kerewo, Rumu & IKP)
• Petroleum Resources Gobe Limited (PDL 3 & 4) – PDL 3 & 4 regions
• Petroleum Resources Moran Limited (PDL 5 & 6) – Homa, Paua, Baguale, Yalanda, Urri Region (Moran Fasu)

Gas:

• Gas Resources PNG LNG Hides 4 Limited – Parepare, Ketaranda, Timalia Kangulu, Tuguba, Middle Block, Tawanda Tokaju
• Gas Resources PNG LNG Pipeline Limited – Segments 1–8
• Gas Resources PNG LNG Plant Site Limited – Papa, Lealea, Boera, Porebada villages

Mining:

• Mineral Resources CMCA – Nupmo, Tutuwe, Waitri, Middle Fly, Suki Fly Gogo, Manawete, Dudi, Kiwaba
• Mineral Resources Star Mountain – Bultem, Finalbin, Wangbin, Migalsim, Kavorabip, Atemkit, Kawentigim, Korkit, Ankit, Okma, Oktedi Tau, Nioksikwi

Selection and Payment Process

• All applications must be submitted by 02 January 2026.
• The Education Subsidy Selection Committee will vet and shortlist applicants.
• Successful candidates will receive an Offer Letter and Student Detail Form via email or phone.
• Tuition fees will be paid directly to institutions.

Continuing students supported under the 2022–2025 programs must submit an updated Student Bio Data Form to maintain eligibility.

Please note: The subsidy does not cover travel, accommodation, book, or laptop allowances.

Contact Information

For more details, visit the official MRDC website:
🔗 https://site.mrdc.com.pg/?page_id=3738

📧 Email: scholarships@mrdc.com.pg
📞 Phone: +675 302 9600

REMEMBER! When applying for a job, it’s crucial to include a cover letter that clearly outlines your interest in the position and your suitability for the role, along with an updated curriculum vitae. Here are 5 valuable tips on crafting emails that grab attention and get read, as well as advice on structuring your CV to make a strong impression. By following these guidelines, you can enhance your application and increase your chances of landing the job you desire.