The Australian High Commission in Kiribati and the Australia Pacific Training Coalition (APTC) proudly celebrated the graduation of 25 I-Kiribati nationals who have earned Australian standard and internationally-recognised qualifications.
In this cohort, 18 young women graduated with Certificate III in Individual Support (Aging, Home and Community), International Skills Training (IST) Trainer and Assessor course, and IST Advanced Course.
This milestone marks Kiribati’s first APTC graduation of the year and showcases the achievements of the 2024 semester graduates.
The Australian High Commissioner to Kiribati, H.E Karen Bray, expressed gratitude to the graduates for their remarkable endeavours and acknowledged the unwavering support of their families, friends, and employers.
She particularly acknowledged the Ministry of Employment and Human Resources and the Ministry of Education, with whom most of the graduating cohort are linked. She also appreciated the steadfast guidance of the APTC management and staff throughout the students’ educational journey.
Her Excellency further emphasised the importance of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programs in bridging the skills gap, fostering entrepreneurship, and enhancing employability among the youth.
“By investing in TVET, Kiribati invests in future leaders, innovators, and skilled professionals who will drive economic growth and social progress. We are especially proud that this cohort includes high school teachers in the Ministry of Education’s TVET in High Schools pilot.”
Ereata Itimaroroa, a graduating student with a Certificate III in Wall and Floor Tiling, said the newfound knowledge and skills would give him the confidence to work effectively in a construction environment, contributing to Kiribati’s economic growth.
“I was driven by a desire to grow and expand my skills and knowledge in construction. My passion for self-improvement was evident at every phase of my learning journey. I diligently embraced every challenge and continually pushed myself to master new skills.”
“My achievement today brings me closer to fulfilling my dream of making a meaningful contribution to my family, community, and the construction industry in Kiribati,” Ereata said.
APTC’s Vocational Training Manager for the Solomon Islands and Kiribati, Amy Thompson, congratulated the i-Kiribati for their exemplary achievement and dedication to their training.
“I am immensely proud of our graduates for their dedication and hard work in achieving these Australian-standard qualifications. This graduation marks a significant milestone for Kiribati’s individuals and broader community.
“We are fostering a generation of leaders and innovators who will drive economic growth and social progress by equipping our students with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in their respective fields,” Ms Thompson said.
The graduates now join APTC’s alumni network, contributing to 24,542 Pacific Islands and Timorese citizens, including 783 i-Kiribati, who have graduated with Australian qualifications.