Freeport Strengthens Papua's Human Resources Through Nemangkawi Mining Institute

26 November 2025

Timika, November 26, 2025 - PT Freeport Indonesia (PTFI) continues to strengthen skilled and work-ready Papuan human resources through vocational education development at the Nemangkawi Mining Institute (IPN), a training center in Mimika Regency, Central Papua.

"Investment in the education sector is a strategic part of the company's social investment. Our focus is to ensure Papua's young generation gains practical skills that can be used to work and build careers," said PTFI's Senior Vice President (SVP) of Community Development, Nathan Kum, in Timika on Monday.

Nathan explained that PTFI develops various education programs from the elementary level to higher education, including vocational schools like IPN and continuing scholarships. "Our goal is to prepare a skilled Papuan generation that is work-ready and able to compete at national and global levels," said Nathan.

IPN is a non-formal vocational education institution designed to equip Papua's young generation with the technical capabilities and work discipline needed in the industrial world, especially the mining sector. The hope is that IPN graduates can directly apply their knowledge to build careers with integrity and play important roles in various professional fields.

Nathan said that since its establishment in 2003, IPN, located in Mimika Regency, has developed into an industry-class vocational training center with Special Work competency-based training and various other human resource development programs.

"The various programs we run form an integrated education ecosystem, from classroom training to hands-on field experience. This approach ensures they can continuously improve their abilities over time," said Nathan.

Since its establishment in 2003, more than 4,000 students have participated in training at IPN. Approximately 90 percent are Native Papuans (OAP), and currently, 71 percent of graduates are already working at PTFI or contractor companies.

One IPN alumnus, Isai Kum, shared that he joined the Apprentice program as a Haul Truck Operator (HE-Operator). After completing intensive training and undergoing an internship program in PTFI's operational area, this young man from the Amungme Tribe now works as a permanent employee at the company.

"At IPN, I didn't just learn technical skills, but also discipline, workplace safety, and teamwork. The internship program allowed me to experience the mining work environment firsthand. I'm proud to be able to work in my homeland and contribute to building Papua through this work," said Isai Kum.

Another story comes from IPN Training Program participant Sri Ningsih W. Watora, majoring in Electrician. This woman from the Kamoro Tribe shared that IPN opened doors for her and other women to pursue careers in an industry that once felt distant.

"Certification, practical experience, and instructor guidance made me confident to compete in any company. I always tell the younger ones in my village, if you're serious, IPN is one of the best paths to change your future," she said.

In 2024, 289 selected participants joined the Student Training Program (Apprentice) after passing rigorous selection from 4,938 applicants. There were 82 people from the Amungme Tribe, 96 people from the Kamoro Tribe, and the rest from 5 other kinship tribes. Of the total number of participants in 2024, 70 were women. "This is IPN's commitment to supporting indigenous communities and gender inclusivity," said Nathan.

Training programs at IPN consist of Mechanical Training and Heavy Equipment Operator and Underground Mine Worker (Miner) Training. The Mechanical Training is further divided into four skills: Electrical, Welding, Heavy Equipment Mechanics, and Plant Mechanics.

In addition to technical training, IPN also provides Entrepreneurship training for Papuan youth, namely the Papuan Bridge Program Youth Entrepreneurship (PBP YET). "Through this program, Papuan youth learn how to create business opportunities, business innovation, and economic independence through training, mentoring, and access to resources," said Nathan.

PHOTO DESCRIPTION

PT Freeport Indonesia, as a strategic government partner, continues to strengthen Papua's human resource (HR) development, especially in Mimika Regency, through the development of the Nemangkawi Mining Institute (IPN).

Nemangkawi Mining Institute is a nonformal vocational education institution established by PT Freeport Indonesia, designed to prepare Papua's young generation to have the technical competence and professional character needed in the workforce, especially the mining sector.

Since its establishment in 2003, the Nemangkawi Mining Institute, founded by PT Freeport Indonesia, has developed into an industry-class vocational training center with Special Work competency-based training and various other HR development programs.

***

About PT Freeport Indonesia (PTFI)

PT Freeport Indonesia (PTFI) is a mineral mining company affiliated with Freeport-McMoRan (FCX) and Mining Industry Indonesia (MIND ID). PTFI mines and processes ore to produce copper minerals containing gold and silver.

PTFI markets concentrate worldwide, particularly to domestic copper smelters, PT Smelting. PTFI's mining operations are located in the Grasberg mineral district, Papua - Indonesia. PTFI currently operates the world's largest underground mine using the block caving method. In carrying out its operational activities, PTFI prioritizes responsible business practices.

 

Contact Info

Katri Krisnati 
Vice President, 
Corporate Communications 
PT Freeport Indonesia 
0811 173947 
kkrisnat@fmi.com

Desy Saputra 
External Communication Manager 
Corporate Communications 
PT Freeport Indonesia 
0812 84817710 
rsaputra24@fmi.com

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