Geologist returns after study

KUMUL Petroleum geologist Elliona Maso says her seven-month study in Spain has broadened her horizons.
Maso returned to PNG recently after she obtained a condensed master of petroleum and geoscience degree in Madrid.
The degree was sponsored by Repsol and Maso studied at their learning facility in Madrid.
“My employer Kumul Petroleum encouraged me to grab the opportunity and supported me with my usual salary as well as an allowance,” she said.
Maso said she loved living overseas and described it as an amazing experience.
“Professionally, the level was outstanding,” she said.
“The other students came from all corners of the world – the US, Canada, Venezuela, Brazil, Angola, Malaysia, Libya – and their work ethics and professional standards were very high.”
Maso said it was seven months of intense learning.
“Socially, I learnt a lot as well,” she said.
“Everybody was outside their comfort zone, which is a really good place to be if you want to understand other cultures.
“During the weekends, I often explored the city with some of the other students.
“The lights, the food and the lifestyle were amazing.”
“We also went backpacking to Paris, Switzerland and Germany.
“Before this, my only overseas trip was a one-week training course in Japan – also initiated by Kumul Petroleum – so I have literally expanded my horizons.”
“Seven months is a long time to be away from home so I became quite emotional when I saw the Air Niugini plane arrive at Hong Kong Airport on my way home.
“Back at work, I soon realised how much I had learnt in Spain.
“My competence and confidence have skyrocketed, I’m completing tasks I wouldn’t even have attempted before I left.
At a team level, I can now participate at a higher level and add more value to the decision making process.
“I am very privileged to work for the best company in the industry.
“Kumul Petroleum will do almost anything to help you learn and improve. Someday I hope I will be the team leader for an exploration asset.
“I also hope that I can inspire other young Papua New Guineans – especially girls – to follow their dreams.
“The nation’s most important asset is its people.
“If we can lift each other to a higher level, we will lift the country to a higher level.”
Kumul Petroleum managing director Wapu Sonk said he is keen to support local talent.
“Elliona has worked for us for the past four years and has turned out to be a very competent and dedicated eologist,” Sonk said.
“Our vision is to empower the people of PNG and education is one of the cornerstones.
“Sending Elliona and other promising young people overseas is a fantastic investment for Kumul Petroleum and for the country.”