The Australia Pacific Training Coalition (APTC) recently provided essential tools and equipment to support Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) delivery for 34 students at the Chevalier Training Centre (CTC) in Wainadoi, Navua.
The handover of carpentry equipment, power tools and a projector screen for the training room is part of the Australian Government’s ongoing support, through APTC, to strengthen skills development in Fiji.
The provision of industry-standard tools will greatly enhance students’ learning experience and skills development in carpentry, cabinet making, welding, and automotive trades making them job-ready for the domestic and regional labour market.
The CTC, established in 1992 by the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart, offers vocational training to young men from disadvantaged backgrounds. The Centre combines practical skills with life skills, preparing students to make positive contributions to their communities and the economy.
Carpentry student, Peter Degei from Nadroga, said the assistance provided by APTC will make a huge difference in their training.
“The donation of modern tools and access to better the learning environment means a lot to us,” he said.
“We can now train with the same tools used in the industry, which will be an advantage when we start our job search. We’re grateful to APTC for boosting our education and helping us achieve our dreams,” Peter added.
The support is part of a partnership, formalised through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between APTC and CTC this year. The MOA outlines a shared commitment to enhancing TVET and improving employment outcomes for Fiji’s youth.
Through this partnership, APTC has also assisted the Center with the refurbishment of the carpentry workshop, stores and the trainer’s office, and developed CTC’s institutional capacity through the International Skills Training to improve training delivery.
The Acting Director of CTC, Father Tavita Lemusu, acknowledged APTC for its ongoing assistance in delivering high-quality training.
“With APTC’s timely assistance, we are transforming the lives of our students by improving access to TVET. Our collaboration with APTC is an investment in the future of our students to empower them to build better lives for themselves and their communities,” Fr Lemusu said.
“This collaboration has enabled CTC to gain national recognition and accreditation from the Higher Education Commission Fiji to deliver national qualifications in carpentry and construction. With plans to expand into automotive and welding, we are thankful to APTC’s support.”
APTC Country Director for Fiji and Tuvalu, Gareth McGrath said the support to CTC reflects APTC’s commitment to bolstering TVET and providing students with the best resources to succeed in the workforce.
“Every student deserves the opportunity to succeed. By partnering with CTC to provide much-needed tools and improve the learning environment, we are helping the students unlock their potential, pursue meaningful careers and contribute to Fiji’s development,” Mr McGrath added.
The upgraded training facilities demonstrate APTC’s commitment to greater accessibility for students, particularly those from remote and rural areas, by promoting an inclusive and supportive learning environment.
APTC collaborates with local industries and national training providers to ensure that the training aligns with both domestic and international training needs.