Schools across Lae are set to receive new sign boards through a partnership between Theodist Limited and the Lae City Authority’s Urban Youth Employment Project Phase 2.
Theodist Limited has signed a Memorandum of Agreement with Lae City Authority - UYEP2 for the manufacture, supply and installation of school sign boards for selected schools across Lae, Morobe Province.
The project brings together the private sector and local government in a practical initiative aimed at improving school visibility, strengthening community identity and supporting public infrastructure. It will also create employment opportunities for young people through the UYEP2 programme.
Under the agreement, Theodist will manufacture and supply high-quality school sign boards based on approved specifications developed in consultation with participating schools. UYEP2 will oversee the erection and installation of the sign boards at the selected school locations.
More than 25 primary and secondary schools across different wards in Lae are expected to benefit from the project. These include Taraka Primary School, Bugandi Secondary School, Lae Secondary School, St. Mary’s Primary School, Coronation International School and Bumayong Lutheran Secondary School, among others.
Theodist Limited CEO, Mr Kumar Baliah, said the partnership reflects the company’s continued commitment to supporting education and community development in Papua New Guinea.
“Schools are important pillars of our communities, and proper signage contributes to identity, pride, visibility, and recognition. We are honoured to partner with Lae City Authority and UYEP2 on this meaningful initiative that will positively impact schools and students across Lae.”
Mr Baliah said the project also highlights the value of strong partnerships between business and government agencies in delivering meaningful community outcomes.
“At Theodist, we believe strong partnerships create lasting impact. This project not only improves infrastructure for schools but also supports youth employment and skills development through the involvement of UYEP2.”
The partnership is especially significant for Theodist, which has had a long-standing connection with Lae and Morobe Province. The company’s Lae branch is one of its largest operations outside Port Moresby and has supported schools, businesses, government offices and communities across the province for many years.
Mr Baliah said Lae has played an important role in Theodist’s journey, making the partnership with Lae City Authority and UYEP2 especially meaningful.
“Lae has been part of Theodist’s story for a very long time. Our Lae branch is one of the company’s largest operations outside Port Moresby, and for many years we have proudly supported schools, businesses, government offices, and communities throughout Morobe Province through the supply of quality stationery, office products, technology solutions, and workplace essentials.
“This partnership with Lae City Authority and UYEP2 is especially meaningful to us because it allows us to continue contributing to the growth and development of a city that has long supported our business.”
The project is scheduled to commence on 21 May 2026 and will continue until all approved school sign boards have been manufactured, delivered and installed.
Through this partnership, Theodist Limited continues its commitment to supporting education, infrastructure development and community partnerships across Papua New Guinea.