Eighty-eight Papua New Guineans have successfully completed their qualifications from various technical and vocational programs delivered by the Australia Pacific Training Coalition (APTC), an Australian Government initiative.
Among them was a male graduate living with disability who graduated with Certificate III in Carpentry (CPC30220).
Twenty-six women were also featured at the graduation ceremony, which took place at the APTC Campus in Port Moresby recently.
The proud graduates attained Australian qualifications in Carpentry, Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology, Commercial Cookery, Individual Support, Construction, Leadership & Management, Hospitality, Tourism, Applied Fashion Design and Technology, and International Skills Training (IST) Trainer and Assessor courses.
In his keynote address, Mr Dave Hunter, Learning and Development Manager, Hastings Deering, commended the graduates for their hard work and skill-building and encouraged them to use their skills and knowledge to make a difference in their communities.
“Skills development can be a key driver of socio-economic progress for our country. Hence, I also acknowledge the contribution of the Australian Government as a partner for skills development of PNG nationals through APTC.
“APTC has been delivering internationally recognised Australian skills and knowledge qualifications in the Pacific since 2007 across a wide range of programs. These training programs are enabling PNG women and men to gain internationally recognised qualifications that in turn provide them with employment in a range of vocational careers,” Mr Hunter said.
Australia’s Acting High Commissioner, Dr Joanne Loundes also commended the new graduates on reaching an important milestone in their careers.
“This achievement is a testament to your commitment, hard work and determination. You have not only done yourselves proud but also your families who have stood by you and supported you, and your beloved country, Papua New Guinea,” Dr Loundes said.
She also recognised the two remarkable women who embraced non-traditional courses – one in Carpentry and the other in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology.
“I would like to extend my warm congratulations to both women. You are an inspiration to many women out there, especially the younger generation. It can be challenging for women to enter fields traditionally dominated by men, but today, your success is a testament to your commitment and perseverance. Congratulations!”
One of the graduates, Jeremy Schulz, who completed his Carpentry course, said his learning experience with APTC was truly life changing as he gained technical skills and a comprehensive understanding of the construction industry.
“The hands-on training, combined with the guidance of my knowledgeable trainers, was invaluable. APTC has played a crucial role in reshaping my career as a carpenter. I found a job as a foreman with a reputable construction company immediately after completing my course. The knowledge and skills I gained have been helpful in my day-to-day work,” he said.
Since its establishment in 2007 by the Australian Government, APTC has trained more than 19,000 Pacific Islanders, including over 3900 Papua New Guineans, of whom 1075 are women.