Ni-Vanuatu Joe Taur’s life took a dramatic turn after Tropical Cyclone Pam struck Vanuatu in 2015, devastating schools, homes, and vital infrastructure. Cyclone Pam was one of the worst disasters to hit Vanuatu, leaving behind a trail of destruction that reshaped many lives. This experience became a turning point for Joe, sparking his commitment to building more sustainable and stronger homes for his people.
While volunteering for the Vanuatu Red Cross, distributing relief supplies to the devastated communities on Malekula Island, Joe saw firsthand the homes destroyed and families left without shelter. This tragic scene ignited a deep sense of responsibility in him.
“Seeing the extent of the damage, I realised that the lack of cyclone-resistant housing was a critical issue in Vanuatu. We needed stronger homes to protect our people from future disasters,” Joe recalls.
Motivated to contribute to rebuilding his community, Joe decided to pursue a career in building construction, focusing on creating homes that could withstand the intensity of tropical cyclones. His goal was clear: equip himself with the skills needed to build durable, cyclone-resistant houses that would help protect Vanuatu’s vulnerable communities.
In 2023, Joe enrolled in the Certificate I and II in Building and Construction at the Vanuatu Institute of Technology (VIT), Rensarie College, where he gained essential construction skills, from site preparation to advanced building techniques. He continued his studies later that year, earning a Certificate III in Carpentry from APTC.
“The hands-on training and guidance from experienced trainers gave me the skills to contribute to my community. APTC helped me grow technically and in how I collaborate with others. This experience will be invaluable for my career and the projects I’ll be a part of.”
Today, Joe is applying his skills in a new role as an Assistant Trainer at VIT, where he is teaching the next generation of builders.
Using the expertise he gained from APTC, Joe trains students in fundamental construction techniques and safety practices. For him, it’s a way to give back to his community while ensuring future builders have the skills to construct resilient, cyclone-resistant homes.
“I’m excited about this opportunity to help shape the future of the construction industry in Vanuatu,” Joe says. “It’s about passing on the knowledge I’ve gained and ensuring that we continue to build safer, stronger homes for our communities.”
Joe is grateful to training institutions like APTC and other Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions in Vanuatu for their efforts in developing skills for his people, enabling them to contribute to the construction of resilient homes and infrastructure.
“TVET is the future. The skills you will gain will push you out of your comfort zone. It will provide you with job-ready skills that will allow you to help your people build homes that will withstand natural disasters. The skills you gain will also open doors to new opportunities,” he added.