Theodist Signs Education Partnership with IBSUniversity and IBSC
Theodist Limited has officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with IBSUniversity (IBSU) and IBS College of TVET (IBSC) to establish a strategic partnership aimed at advancing education, practical learning, and workforce readiness in Papua New Guinea.
The signing ceremony was held earlier today at the Theodist Business Superstore headquarters in Port Moresby, with senior representatives from all three organisations present to formalise the partnership.
Under the agreement, Theodist will provide on-the-job training opportunities to students from both IBSU and IBSC, giving them exposure to real workplace environments and helping them apply classroom knowledge in practical settings. In return, IBSUniversity will deliver professional training workshops for Theodist staff, led by academic experts in business, technology, and management.
Speaking at the event, Kumar Baliah, CEO of Theodist Limited, reaffirmed the company’s ongoing commitment to education.
“Theodist has always believed in the power of education to transform lives. This partnership with IBSU and IBSC strengthens our long-standing support for PNG’s education sector by creating a direct link between learning and industry. We’re excited to offer real-world opportunities to students while also opening up pathways for our team to learn and grow alongside academic professionals.”
The partnership also includes collaborative initiatives such as guest lectures, student mentoring, guided industry visits, and participation in curriculum development, ensuring that academic content stays aligned with evolving industry standards.
IBSU Vice Chancellor Professor Ramachandran Arunachalam says this MOU is a strategic partnership that will ensure students graduating from IBSU and IBSC are well equipped with practical knowledge and skills before entering the workforce.
“IBSUniversity is committed to the holistic development of its students by offering practical, experience-based learning opportunities. Through structured internship training, students can apply the theoretical knowledge gained in the classroom during their course of study.
The Memorandum of Understanding with Theodist is a strategic step toward bridging the gap between academic learning and industry expectations. This partnership ensures that students graduate not only with academic qualifications but also with practical, job-ready skills, making them fully prepared for the workforce.
Ultimately, this initiative supports our broader vision of enriching lives through world-class education, training, and research.”
In support of Prof. Ramachandran, Head of IBSC, Mr. Sagara Wijeratne says the institution has a long-standing relationship with Theodist, and this MOU strengthens this existing partnership in delivering quality education.
“We have a long-standing relationship with Theodist. This MOU formalises our understanding with them to enhance the quality of education by improving the practical skills of our students with the facilitation and support of Theodist.”
The MOU is set to remain in effect for three years, with potential for renewal. It reflects Theodist’s broader vision to be the most trusted and preferred provider of products and services that empower education and business across Papua New Guinea.
Through this partnership, all three organisations reaffirm their dedication to building a more skilled, future-ready workforce—and to supporting the development of Papua New Guinea through meaningful, sustainable collaboration between academia and industry.