Allan Hanam, from Madang Province in Papua New Guinea, is on a path to success and is thankful for having sacrificed time to upskill with the Australia Pacific Training Coalition (APTC).
“It was the best decision I made in 2023, as it not only resulted in me gaining new skills but also led to my promotion,” he said.
Allan is a qualified mechanic and a proud graduate of the APTC Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology (AUR30620) from the APTC Port Moresby Campus. Huon Logistics currently employs him as a workshop supervisor.
“When I was offered the opportunity to study at APTC Port Moresby campus, it was an offer I couldn’t refuse as I knew that the opportunity to undertake the light vehicle mechanical technology course is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, a golden ticket to a brighter future.
“I’m thankful to have had the support of the management team at Huon Logistics, who allowed me time to undertake the course.
“The skills I’ve gained from the course, I am now applying at my workplace, and I also feel much more accomplished having gained further skills and knowledge,” Allan added.
“I am more confident in leading a team and am now imparting the knowledge I’ve gained to others who have yet to upgrade their skills. They are learning from me, and as I progress in my career, I am also secure in the thought that this qualification will provide me with the career advancement I’ve hoped for.”
Allan is among 655 graduates from the Pacific who have completed this course through APTC.
The Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology course is currently offered at APTC’s Fiji and Papua New Guinea campuses. As part of its commitment to gender equity, disability, and social inclusion (GEDSI), APTC is actively promoting the course to attract more women and ensure diverse participation and opportunities in non-traditional trades and the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) sector.
Allan encouraged individuals in the automotive industry or trade to never hold back and always be eager to learn new skills.
“Without this training from APTC, I would still be doing what I did previously and maybe would not be able to move any further in my career, and this is why it is important to always take up challenges, especially in education. I am proud to say this qualification has helped me at my workplace and has benefited my family with the income I am now earning. I hope to continue to upskill and contribute to my community; I am also excited to see what the future holds for me,” he added.
“I am also thankful to the Australian Government for its support through APTC in bringing TVET opportunities to our people in PNG and to my employer, Huon Logistics, for supporting me. We need more employers to support their workers in upskilling,” Allan remarked.
APTC is the Australian Government’s significant TVET investment in the Pacific and Timor-Leste.
Since 2007, APTC has awarded full Australian qualifications to more than 20,000 Pacific and Timorese citizens, including over 4,070 Papua New Guineans, in various vocational courses.
